Ambrussum

Ambrussum (modern name Pont-Ambruis) is a magnificent Gallo-Roman archaeological site notable for its celebrated bridge, painted by Gustave Courbet, and for its oppidum (fortified village at a height).

The bridge was still usable in the Middle Ages, with all 11 arches, but when painted by Courbet only two arches were left, and one of those was subsequently lost in flooding of the Vidourle river in 1933. The single remaining arch, even as it is, remains impressive.

The Roman road, easily visible with traces of Roman chariot tracks forming "railway tracks", leads up the hill where ruins of habitations are easily observable. The walk is usually made in quiet solitude, which adds to the charm of Ambrussum.

See Also

Do the "railway tracks" have any bearing on the modern Rail gauge?