Augsburg: a city with more bridges than Venice. Can you believe it? We are standing before a marvel. It is not just a pretty fountain or an old church. This is the Water Management System of Augsburg. UNESCO recognized its unique value in 2019.
For over 1,000 years, this system has provided drinking water. It also generates hydroelectric power. Augsburg’s water system is a testament to Swabian engineering. The Romans started it with the first aqueduct. Later, Augsburgers perfected it.
The Water Management System includes water towers and fountains. It also has 199 kilometers of streams. These streams flow through the old town’s narrow streets.
Augsburg can be called the influencers of the Middle Ages. In 1414, they built the Great Water Tower. This was the first water tower in Central Europe. It originally stood at the Rotes Tor. The tower was first built of wood. Later, it was bricked and raised to seven stories.
Augsburgers copied a technique from North Italian towns. Piston pumps pumped water into the water towers. A water wheel powered these pumps. From there, water flowed to public wells through wooden pipes. By the 16th century, some houses had running water.
The Water Management System boosted local businesses. The city butcher’s shop is an example. It was completed in 1609. The river Lech flowed through the shop. This kept the meat cool and removed waste easily.
The Water Management System also features monumental fountains. The Augustus Fountain was built in 1594. The Mercury Fountain followed in 1599. Then came the Hercules Fountain in 1602.
The system includes canals dating back to the 13th century. These canals are still used today. A canal dug in 1879 is now a canoe course. It is called the Eiskanal.
Augsburg’s strict separation of drinking and process water began in 1545. This was long before people understood hygiene. They realized pure water was vital for health.
The Water Management System of Augsburg shows innovative hydraulic engineering. It shows exemplary water use for over seven centuries. The system uses both spring and river water. Canals and watercourses keep these waters separate. This ensures clean drinking water. It also provides water for industry.
The Augsburg Water Management System stands as a lasting achievement. It has shaped the city’s history and prosperity. The system remains a source of pride for Augsburg.