Pont-aqueduc de Galas, Historical aqueduct in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, France

The Galas Aqueduct Bridge is an arched structure that crosses the Sorgue River as part of an old canal system. The construction features sturdy stone piers supporting the water channel that rises well above the riverbed below.

The Galas aqueduct bridge carries the Carpentras Canal across the Sorgue at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. The canal, built in the 19th century to irrigate the plains around Carpentras, is fed by the Durance. The bridge was listed as a monument historique by decree of 6 November 2001.

The structure shows how engineers in the 19th century moved water across the land to supply villages and fields. You see here the skill and planning of a time when such works were essential for the region to grow.

You can reach the bridge on foot via hiking trails that run through the Sorgue Valley and link several landmarks. The best views come from different angles along the riverbank, where you can see the structure from above and below.

Many visitors do not notice that water still flows through the channel, though it is barely visible. The river beneath this monument has its own ecology and story, showing the contrast between old engineering and natural water movement.