Explore the Historic Poilhes Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is a 240-kilometre long canal in Southern France, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. It was built between 1666 and 1681 and is considered one of the greatest works of civil engineering in history. The canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is popular with tourists, offering scenic views and a variety of activities.

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History

The Canal du Midi was designed and built by Pierre-Paul Riquet, a French engineer and financier. He had the idea for the canal in 1662 and received approval for its construction from King Louis XIV in 1666. The canal was opened in 1681, and by 1720, it was the most heavily used canal in Europe. It remained in use until the mid-20th century, when it was replaced by a series of locks and dams.

Features

The Canal du Midi is an impressive feat of engineering. It includes more than 50 locks, 12 aqueducts, and numerous bridges. It is lined with trees and is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and boaters. The canal is also home to many species of birds and other wildlife.

Activities

The Canal du Midi is a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, and boating along the canal. There are also many restaurants and shops along the canal, offering a variety of local cuisine and souvenirs. The canal is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year.

Points of Interest

The Canal du Midi is home to many points of interest, including:

The Abbey of Saint-Roch – an 11th century monastery located in the village of Poilhes.
The Château de Revel – a 12th century castle located in the village of Revel.
The Canal du Midi Museum – a museum located in the village of Trèbes, dedicated to the history of the canal.

The Canal du Midi Today

Today, the Canal du Midi is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a variety of activities for visitors, from walking and cycling to boating and fishing. The canal is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages.