Roman Aqueduct, Segovia
Interactive satellite map of the aqueduct of Segovia where it crosses
the Plaza del Azoguejo. For a larger view, see our Segovia Map.
The ancient Roman aqueduct in Segovia is not a religious site, but it is such a magnificent monument that I just can't bear to leave it off my website!
The most visited and photographed sight in Segovia and the symbol of the city (look for it on benches and rubbish bins all over the city), this aqueduct deserves its fame. Its massive scale and excellent state of preservation are unmatched anywhere in Europe.
Built in the 1st century AD under Emperor Domitian or Trajan (no one knows for sure), the visible part of Segovia's aqueduct consists of 800 meters of granite blocks, 166 arches, 120 pillars, and not a drop of mortar or cement. In total, it stretches for 10 miles (16 km).
The aqueduct once brought water to the city from the Rio Frio, but today stands dormant. After surviving remarkably intact for 2000 years, the magnificent structure's future stability is now uncertain, due to traffic vibrations and pollution.
Today, Segovia's aqueduct stretches from the southeast end of the city, across the Plaza del Azoguejo, to the southeastern walls of the old city. Its scale and stones are best admired from the Plaza, but then climb the stairs to the city walls for a view over the top and along its length into the distance.
Sources
- Personal visit (April 1, 2007) - see Segovia Travel Blog
- Rough Guide Spain 11 (2004), 186.
