The Roman aqueduct of Segovia
The roman aqueduct of Segovia´s landmark and amongst Spain´s top attractions. It is with no doubt one of the finest structures in the world from Roman times. Its exact date of construction is not known, though experts date it between the second half of the first century and the start of the second century A.D, during the reigns of Trajan and Vespian.
The aqueduct is probably Segovia´s top attractions, but this Unesco heritage site has many other things to enjoy. You will be surprised by the beauty of the Alcazar of Segovia, its Cathedral (the latest Gothic cathedral in Europe) and also its beautifully decorated buildings.
Segovia is one of the provinces in the Castilla Leon Comunidad Autonoma. This vast region holds most of Spain´s romanique churches and some of the finest gothic cathedrals in the country.
The aqueduct is the tourist attraction in Segovia with a higest rate. And visiting it is free of charge!
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Table of Contents
Where is the highest part of the aqueduct located?
The highest part of the aqueduct is located next to a large roundabout A very convenient underground parking is located at this roundabout and from there the aqueduct is just at 2 minutes walk. Visiting the aqueduct is free of charge and you can enjoy amazing views of Segovia if you take the stairs located next to the tourism office.
How long is the aqueduct of Segovia?
The entire construction is 17 kilometers long. It brings water to Segovia from Riofrio (the mountains not far from Segovia). Water is collectedin a water tower, which receives the name of “El Caseron” (The big house) and it is then conducted through a stone canal that ends at a second tower where the water is cleaned.
Is the aqueduct of Segovia still operational?
The aqueduct stopped being use in the second half of the XX century. It is not used today.
How many leves does the aqueduct in Segovia has?
From the second tower we just mentioned the aqueduct crosses Segovia. It is at this moment when it shines. 119 arches and 2,446 feet long.
The aqueduct is two-storeyed over a length of 927 feet and at its highest it gets to 97 feet high (Plaza del azoguejo).
What sort of stone is used for its construction?
Granite blocks from the Guadarrama mountain range were used for its construction and they were laid one on top of the other without any kind of mortar!
Many arches were destroyed during the conquest of Segovia by the Arabs in the 11th century, and were rebuilt in the 15th century.
Tours to enjoy the aqueduct of segovia
Segovia is one of the top attractions located near Madrid and it is actually one of the best day tours to enjoy from Madrid.
Most visitors to Segovia spend a day in this beautiful city as part of a day excursion from Madrid. You can get to Segovia by AVE train from Madrid, or also by car using the highway (1 hour drive). Using the car is convinient if you would like to also visit La Granja palace and its gardens.
You may also decide to enjoy one of the day tours to Segovia from Madrid (some of them combine Segovia with another top attraction like Avila or the Valley of the Fallen)
Video - The aqueduct of Segovia
