The Barbegal aqueduct and mill complex in Arles
An impressive roman engineering feat
The Barbegal aqueduct and mill is a remarkable Roman watermill complex located in the commune of Fontvieille, 10 km from the town of Arles. Described as "the greatest known concentration of mechanical power in the ancient world," it stands as a testament to Roman engineering and ingenuity.
Purpose and location of Arles aqueduct
The Barbegal aqueduct and mills were part of a larger Roman aqueduct system designed to supply drinking water from the Alpilles mountain range to the town of Arles. Located 12 kilometers north of Arles, near Fontvieille, the aqueduct met a steep hill at Barbegal. At this point, the water flow was ingeniously harnessed to power a flour mill.
The mill’s design and operation
The complex featured 16 water wheels arranged in two parallel rows built into the hillside. These were fed by two aqueducts that merged just north of the mill site. A sluice system allowed operators to regulate the water flow effectively. Significant remains of the stone water channels, mill foundations, and a staircase ascending the hill are still visible today.
The Barbegal mill complex operated from the late 1st century until approximately the end of the 3rd century. Its capacity has been estimated at 4.5 tons of flour per day, sufficient to produce bread for around 12,500 inhabitants of Arelate (the Roman name for Arles) at the time.
Decline and Current State
While the mills ceased operation centuries ago, visitors can still explore the ruins. The remains of the aqueduct can be followed southward through a cleft in the ridge to the top of the mill complex, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity of ancient Roman technology.
Informative Exhibits
For those wishing to deepen their understanding of the site, the Arles Museum of Antiquity features detailed models of the Barbegal mill, providing valuable insights into how this extraordinary system functioned.
Visiting the Arles Aqueduct and the Barbegal Site
Visitors may park nearby and enjoy a short walk along the aqueduct remains to explore this historically significant and engineering marvel. The Barbegal aqueduct and mill complex is an essential stop for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and technology.
Address
The Barbegal Aqueduct and Mill is located on Route de l'Aqueduc, 13990 Fontvieille, France. This historical site is freely accessible and provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman engineering. (parc-alpilles.fr)