Cesse Aqueduct

#163 among destinations in France

Aqueduct

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Facts and practical information

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.

Local name: Pont-canal de Cesse Opened: 1690 (334 years ago)Coordinates: 43°16'49"N, 2°54'57"E

Location

OccitanieFrance

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Day trips

Cesse Aqueduct – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Port de la Robine, La Nouvelle branch, Épanchoir des Patiasses, Mirepeisset.

~930 ftN
Canal
Port de la Robine
5 min walk • Port de la Robine is located at PK168 on the Canal du Midi immediately adjacent to the Truilhas Bridge. The turn for the La Nouvelle branch is.5 km north east and the Cesse aqueduct.5 km south west.
0.4 miE
Canal
La Nouvelle branch
11 min walk • The La Nouvelle branch is a 37.3-kilometre branch of the Canal du Midi in Aude, southern France which runs from the Canal du Midi through Narbonne and on to the Mediterranean.
~330 ftSW
Canal
Épanchoir des Patiasses
2 min walk • The Épanchoir des Patiasses is a siphon for water release from the Canal du Midi immediately to the west of the Cesse Aqueduct and southeast of the village of Mirepeisset.
1 miW
Locality
Mirepeisset
26 min walk • One of the main attractions in Mirepeisset is its stunning natural surroundings. The village is surrounded by lush vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.