Pondel aqueduct bridge

Walking on empty space, protected by history

When is it open: everyday

What's not to be missed: walking inside the bridge

Where is it: Pondel hamlet

Why?… Because it's worth it: this majestic bridge in brick and cut stone is around 56 metres high from the level of the flowing water and is more than 50 metres long.

Please note: 14th November 2011 has been the start date for the restoration and improvement works of the Pont d’Aël site, consisting in the preservation of the roman aqueduct-bridge, in creating a visit itinerary and in recovering an adjacent building destined to become the site interpretation Centre. During the works period, the upper passage will remain open to the public, while the internal passage will be closed. The works ending is expected for April 2013.

An inscription on the front facing north enables us to date it to the year 3 B. C. and commemorates its promoter and owner, Caius Avillius Caimus. The structure included a covered walkway, about 1 metre wide, illuminated by narrow windows on both walls and was accessed on both ends through wooden doors. An open, upper canal, with a stone slab base and water-proof walls, allowed

the flow of water collected from the springs situated on the left bank of the river; starting from the western end you can still see the ruins of the water system which worked with the structure. Among the more in-depth assumptions on the use of the structure, ideas have immerged linking it to the mining and processing of ferrous materials in the Cogne valley or, most likely, its use as a short range bridge-aqueduct for the surrounding areas.

Subsequent modifications indicate a water collection function during the Post Classic period, to the advantage of the village inhabitants, which is indirectly mentioned from the XIII century onwards by way of a mill being mentioned (document from the year 1265).