A real architectural feat, the Vauban vault plays an essential role in transporting water to Lake Saint-Ferréol and the Canal du Midi.
Pierre-Paul Riquet, having understood that only the capture of the waters of the Montagne Noire would allow his future canal to cross the highest point of the Naurouze threshold at 189m, had two feeder channels built: the Rigole de la Montagne and the Rigole de la Plaine. The Rigole de la Montagne leads to Les Cammazes.
Beginning its journey at the Prise d'Alzeau, the Rigole de la Montagne criss-crosses the forest to Le Conquet in the initial construction of Riquet. It was Vauban who a few years later had the Rigole de la Montagne continued as far as Les Cammazes and had the 123m long aqueduct drilled, allowing the Rigole to flow into the Laudot to reach Lake Saint-Ferréol.
The must-see: dare to walk along the Rigole de la Montagne while passing under the vault. Flashlight required and thrills guaranteed!
