Barbegal aqueduct, Provence, France
Approximately 12 kilometers northeast of Arles and just 3 km south of Fontvieille lies a fascinating historical site: the impressive ruins of a Roman aqueduct and an intricate system of water mills. Commonly known as "the Barbegal aqueduct," this ancient marvel once supplied drinking water to the nearby town of Arelate (modern-day Arles). More remarkably, it powered a massive flour milling complex featuring eight water wheels arranged in a cascading series, providing sustenance for the city's inhabitants. This technical infrastructure stands as one of the most sophisticated engineering feats of the ancient world. A visit on a beautiful day promises a truly enjoyable and insightful walk through history.
Parking at the aqueduct
Interestingly, despite its historical significance, the Barbegal aqueduct remains a somewhat hidden gem, attracting relatively few tourists. This means you'll likely find it easy to park your car directly on the Route de l'Acqueduc, just a few meters from the aqueduct's visible ruins (1; GPS: 43.704891, 4.722232). The convenience of direct access makes this site an excellent, hassle-free addition to your itinerary.
Visiting the ruins of the aqueduct
As soon as you step out of your car, the distinctive ruins of the aqueduct immediately come into view, stretching across the road. To begin your exploration, you can first head south and walk along the aqueduct's path up to the slope. This is the very spot where the water wheels, crucial for driving the flour mills that served the citizens of Arles, were originally positioned. You'll follow a charming path that, while potentially muddy in rainy weather, is a pure delight on a sunny day. The walk is particularly pleasant, with beautiful olive trees gracing your left side. After approximately 300 meters, you'll reach the slope, which offers a picturesque view of the surrounding Arles countryside (A; GPS: 43.702932, 4.721265). Below, you can clearly discern the remains of the robust structures designed to hold the massive water wheels in place. From here, you can retrace your steps along the same path, cross the road, and continue along the aqueduct in the opposite direction until you reach the small "Canal de la Vallée des Baux" (B; GPS: 43.705556, 4.721686), completing your historical circuit.
Gastronomy near Barbegal Aqueduct
Given the Barbegal Aqueduct's location in a rural area, dining options immediately adjacent to the site are limited. However, its close proximity to Fontvieille and Arles means that excellent culinary experiences are just a short drive away. Fontvieille offers charming village restaurants, while Arles, being a larger city, provides a much broader range of choices, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, all serving the rich and diverse flavors of Provençal cuisine.
What to Try?
- Provençal Dishes: Expect dishes rich in olive oil, garlic, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, and savory. Look for specialties such as ratatouille, tapenade, aioli, and various lamb or beef stews.
- Arlesian Specialties: In Arles, you might find dishes like "Gardianne de Taureau" (bull stew), a hearty local specialty, reflecting the Camargue bull-breeding traditions.
- Local Produce: The region is known for its fresh vegetables, fruits, and olives. Salads often feature sun-ripened tomatoes and local goat cheeses.
- Rosé Wines: Provence is famous for its crisp and refreshing rosé wines, which pair perfectly with the local cuisine.
Where to Eat?
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In Fontvieille (approx. 3 km away):
Restaurant La Cuisine au Planet: (7, Avenue d'Arles, 13990 Fontvieille) This highly-rated restaurant boasts a 4.5/5 rating (from over 300 reviews) on Google Maps and is often praised for its creative, refined Provençal cuisine and pleasant outdoor seating. It's an excellent choice for a quality meal in a charming village setting. -
In Arles (approx. 12 km away):
Le Criquet: (21 Rue des Suisses, 13200 Arles) With a remarkable 4.6/5 rating (from over 600 reviews) on Google Maps, Le Criquet is a popular choice in Arles known for its authentic regional dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere. It's a fantastic option for experiencing traditional Arlesian cuisine.
Café La Roquette: (17 Rue de la Roquette, 13200 Arles) If you're looking for a delightful cafe experience in Arles, Café La Roquette comes highly recommended with a 4.4/5 rating (from over 200 reviews) on Google Maps. It's praised for its excellent coffee, pastries, and a relaxed ambiance, making it perfect for a morning stop or an afternoon break.
While the Barbegal Aqueduct itself is a journey into ancient history, a short drive will lead you to a wealth of culinary delights in the nearby towns, allowing you to complete your Provençal experience with delicious local flavors.
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