How could a city flourish without a reliable water source? That was the question facing Heraklion, or Candia as it was then known, in the early 17th century. Today we stand before a testament to the solution. This is the Venetian Aqueduct of Morosini.
Imagine the year is 1627. Venetian ruler Francesco Morosini recognized the critical need for fresh water. He initiated a public project to solve Heraklion’s persistent water shortage. Morosini’s vision resulted in this aqueduct. It is one of the best water supply projects from the era of Venetian rule.
The Venetian Aqueduct is a marvel of engineering. The aqueduct is around 15km long. It was designed to channel water from three springs in Archanes. These springs were Pelekita, Agiou Georgiou and Karydaki. Later, more springs were added during the Ottoman period.
Look closely at the stone pipe. It carried water through Syllamos and Fortetsa. The water eventually reached the central square of Chandax. Today, we know this as Heraklion. The final destination was the famous Four Lions Fountain.
The aqueduct bridge before you is the largest construction of the Morosini Venetian Aqueduct. It stretches impressively over 65 meters. Notice the large arch flanked by two smaller ones. This sturdy bridge was essential for carrying water across the rugged Karydaki Gorge. The bridge also provided passage across the gorge.
Construction of the aqueduct was completed in just 14 months. It was an ambitious project. The aqueduct was inaugurated on April 25 1628, St. Mark’s feast day. St. Mark was the patron saint of Venice. The inauguration took place at the Lions Square.
Morosini even had a commemorative medallion created. One side depicted Zeus. The other side showed an eagle pouring water from Mt. Juktas. The inscription read “Quadet feumine non fulmine”. This means “Happy with the water not the thunder”.
To protect the aqueduct, severe penalties were put in place. Anyone who damaged the structure faced imprisonment, forced labor, exile, or property confiscation. Planting trees within 10 steps of the pipe was also forbidden. Morosini even ordered the Panagia Kardiotissa Convent to be vacated. He feared sabotage.
Interestingly, the chapel of Panagia is still preserved near the canal-carrying aqueduct. An inscription on the bridge bears the date 1627.
The Venetian Aqueduct supplied water to Heraklion until 1927. It served the city for nearly three centuries. The aqueduct stood almost in its entirety until the Second World War.
The Karydaki Aqueduct stands in good condition. It is a popular tourist destination. It reminds us of Crete’s rich Venetian heritage. As you stand here, imagine the sound of rushing water echoing through these arches. Appreciate the engineering skills that made this remarkable feat possible.
The Venetian Aqueduct of Morosini is more than just a structure. It symbolizes Venetian engineering prowess and dominance over Crete. It is a reminder of how human innovation can conquer natural challenges. It ensured a vital resource for the community. This aqueduct is a lasting legacy of ingenuity and necessity.