Castellum divisorium, Roman water distribution system in Nîmes, France

The castellum divisorium is a Roman water structure in Nîmes that received water from a distant spring and distributed it to different locations. The underground basin had multiple outlet openings to direct the flow where it was needed.

This facility was built in the first century and marked the endpoint of a large pipe system that brought water over considerable distances. It demonstrates how Romans already employed advanced techniques for water delivery.

This structure shows how Romans managed water distribution across the city to serve different neighborhoods. Today you can observe how the system operated and the role it played in daily city life.

You'll find this site near the city center of Nîmes and can visit it year-round. It is an outdoor archaeological location, so wet weather can make the ground slippery.

The basin held only 16 m³ of water below the outlet level, so its storage role was limited. Three bronze-flap drains at the bottom emptied surplus water into a discharge sewer. A castellarius, a dedicated officer, was responsible for the monument's upkeep.