Roquefavour Aqueduct, Aix-en-Provence

The Roquefavour Aqueduct stands as a testament to the ingenuity of 19th-century engineering and remains one of the grandest structures in the vicinity of Aix-en-Provence, France. This colossal stone aqueduct, constructed between 1841 and 1847, was designed to transport water from the Durance River to Marseille, addressing the city's critical water shortage.

Spanning the Arc river valley, the Roquefavour Aqueduct measures an impressive 393 meters in length and rises to a height of 82.6 meters, making it the highest stone aqueduct in the world—a record it has held since its completion. Its three-tiered design is not only functional but also aesthetically striking, often drawing comparisons to the ancient Roman aqueducts, particularly the famous Pont du Gard.

The aqueduct is a marvel of engineering, comprising 11 arches on the first tier, 47 on the second, and 53 on the third. It was built using over 11,000 tons of stone, without the aid of modern machinery. The designer, engineer Franz Mayor de Montricher, took inspiration from the Roman aqueducts and combined it with contemporary building techniques of his time.

Today, the Roquefavour Aqueduct is not only a vital piece of infrastructure but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors to the region can admire the grandeur of the aqueduct and the picturesque landscape it dominates. While it is not possible to walk on the aqueduct itself, there are several viewpoints and hiking trails in the surrounding area that offer spectacular views and photo opportunities.