Beneath our feet lies a testament to ancient ingenuity the Hadrian Aqueduct. This aqueduct isn’t just a relic. It is a still-functioning marvel.
Constructed between 125 and 140 AD by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, the Hadrian Aqueduct stretches approximately 25 kilometers. It begins at Mount Parnitha’s peak north of Athens and concludes in Kolonaki. The Hadrian Aqueduct crosses seven municipalities. They are Acharnes, Metamorfosi, Heraklion, Marousi, Halandri, Filothei-Psychiko, and Athens.
Imagine the meticulous design. The Hadrian Aqueduct was created by drilling 465 wells. These wells tapped into underground aquifers and water streams. The water flows naturally through a tunnel thanks to the inclination. This tunnel measures 1.2 to 1.6 meters in height and 0.8 meters in width.
Interestingly, Hadrian’s Aqueduct operated without significant changes until the Ottoman Occupation in 1456. During this time, the reservoir was abandoned. Athenians relied on wells instead. Restoration started in 1847. It was intermittently cleaned and repaired between 1870 and 1932. Sections were integrated into Athens’ new water supply network.
However, with the Marathon Dam’s completion in 1929, the Hadrian Aqueduct ceased being Athens’ primary water source. It remained a supplementary source for many years. Today, due to disrepair and urban development, the Hadrian Aqueduct is damaged in places. Yet, 390 of the original 456 wells have been located. Of those, 228 are visible, and 174 are in public spaces.
The Greek government is actively involved in restoring the Hadrian Aqueduct. This restoration aims to reduce the city’s environmental footprint. Engineers and scientists are assessing the aqueduct’s water supply quantity and quality. The goal is to use it for irrigating public land.
Currently, the CULTURAL H.ID.RA.N.T project utilizes non-drinking water from the Hadrian Aqueduct for Halandri. It highlights the aqueduct as a significant cultural monument. This project transforms urban spots into Hadrian-watered urban gardens. It promotes sustainable water use and raises heritage awareness.
Hadrian’s Aqueduct stands as a rare Roman monument. It is also a valuable water resource. It is a testament to sustainable water management.