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Aqueduct of Segovia

The Segovia Aqueduct is a colossal roman structure. This structure has been standing for about 2,000 years and remains as a historical monument in this city. This structure is built at the end of the 1st century and was actively used until the 19th century. The Frio River supplied the aqueduct with water. This aqueduct is one of the most intact Roman aqueducts in Europe. This structure was commissioned by the Roman emperor Trajan.

Mythology

A colloquial term for this aqueduct is the "Puente de Diablo", Devil's bridge. The colloquial tale is Lucifer built the bridge in one night for the purpose to woo a young woman's soul. Lucifer did not win the soul because he missed one stone by the time the sun rose. Locals say the holes on the stones are where the devil put his fingers.

Location

It starts from one side of the city of Segovia, Spain, and ends at the other side. It spans from the Frio river to the city of Segovia, which is about 11 miles. This aqueduct is located in about the middle of Spain.

Map of spain

Construction

This aqueduct is originally commissioned to be built by the Roman Emperor Trajan. The estimated date that it was completed is uncertain. It is estimated to have taken 20 years for construction. There is 165 stone archs. This structure was not built with the Roman innovation, concrete. Instead it is built with granite blocks. The aqueduct is 28.6 meters tall at its highest point. In addition, the above ground archs stretch to be about 2,388 feet long. The style is very simple, and is hardly ornate. The structure is organized in two levels. The archs hold up the structure. While a mold conveys the flow of water above that. The aqueduct was rebuilt in the 15th century because it was partially destroyed by the Moors in 1072. The aqueduct similarly resembles a barrel vault engineering form because of all of its single sided archs.The archs distribute the weight well, which is why this structure still stands today. Currently the aqueduct is under 'watch' by the World Monuments Fund. This organization oversees the structure of the Aqueduct, and many more historical structures around the world. They fund projects for restoration and protection of these monuments. In addition to modern organizations like WMF. There have been more restoration in the past by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabell. In that reconstruction, 36 archs were refurbished. Currently the concern organization have about the longevity of the structure is car pollution. Car activity is causing vibrations, weakening the structure.

long view of aqueduct