Today, we are going WAY back in history to discuss a fascinating structure: AQUEDUCTS! An aqueduct, much like a canal, is an artificially made watercourse that distributes water from one location to another. Although similar structures can be identified in ancient Egypt and India, Ancient Rome improved the structure, and spent years perfecting its complex design. According to National Geographic, “Roman aqueduct systems were built over a period of 500 years, from 312 B.C. to 226 A.D.” This extensive time researching and planning their designs show the organization that ancient Rome aquired. This organization and ability to design such extravagant features is why ancient Rome has made history for its architecture and design.

Aquaducts are made of bridges, pipes, and tunnels, and it carried its main function of carrying water to communities gravitationally through the use of natural topographical slope .

Aqueducts span across the city of Rome. These ancient features serve as landmarks for the city, and as sightseeing oppurtunities for tourists.

One ancient aqueduct, Pont du Gard, crosses the Gardon River in Southern France. This three-tiered bridge spans approximately 160 feet high, and is known for its historical significance. It was built around 19 B.C by Roman Emperor Augustus’s son-in-law, Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa.

This aqueduct, just as all others in Rome, stands for the elaborate history of ancient Rome, their accomplishments, extravagance and innovation.

Roman aqueducts are still considered major engineering achievements today. They have influenced many modern-day innovations, including pumps and pressurized systems. In fact, the

water supply in New York City comes from three major aqueducts. Aqueducts supply many urban areas as well as crop-irrigation projects.

Specifically regarding artistic design, the archwork in Roman Aqueducts are renowned. Their intricate features, multi-tered arches, and thoughtful stonework, which fit together by friction, no mortar, are all inspiring techniques that are admired by designers today.