Cesse Aqueduct

The Cesse Aqueduct is a lesser-known yet historically significant engineering marvel located in the South of France. As a vital component of the Canal du Midi, this stone aqueduct allows the canal to gracefully cross over the Cesse River, showcasing the ingenuity of 17th-century construction.

Built under the supervision of Pierre-Paul Riquet during the reign of Louis XIV, the aqueduct was part of the grand project to connect the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. The Canal du Midi, including the Cesse Aqueduct, was completed in 1681 and has since been recognized as one of the oldest functioning canal systems in Europe.

Although modest in size compared to its more famous counterparts, the Cesse Aqueduct is a testament to the enduring legacy of early modern civil engineering. Its enduring structure has withstood the test of time and continues to support the flow of both water and navigation. Visitors to the region can admire the aqueduct's unassuming beauty and the tranquil waters of the canal, which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.