The Segovia Aqueduct is an age-old monument to the innovation and grandeur of the Roman Empire. Framing the ancient borders of the city, the aqueduct’s perfectly precise design merges beauty and utility. Stroll beneath the colossal pillars of the two-tiered structure and imagine the city as it would have appeared two millennia ago. Find out about the myths and legends surrounding the monumental landmark and learn about the feat of engineering that allowed the structure to function for almost 19 centuries.
The immense aqueduct is comprised of a lower tier of 128 pillars stretching 2,667 feet (813 metres) across the ancient city streets. Given its length and quality of conservation, you can stroll beneath any point in the structure and admire its magnificent masonry and simplistic design. Visit the Azoguejo Square to see the aqueduct at its tallest point and wander between the enormous columns. Look up to see the second tier of pillars and arches linking across the sky. Stroll south to follow the structure across Plaza Artillería and Plaza de Día Sanz.
Run your fingers over the granite ashlars. The masonry is reliant upon an innovative balancing system to stay upright and is set without cement or mortar. It is believed to date back to A.D. 50 and transported water from the Río Frio river until the middle of the 19th century. See if you can spot the holes in the stones, which legend attributes to the devil’s fingers. The old myth says that the devil attempted to build the bridge in one night to win the soul of a young woman, but the single stone he lacked when dawn came meant that he failed. This legend gave rise to the aqueduct’s nickname, Puente de Diablo (Devil’s Bridge).
Visit the ancient Segovia Aqueduct during your walking tour of the old town. It is situated near the Visitor Reception Centre. Enjoy views of the structure from one of the restaurants or plazas that flank its length. The Segovia Aqueduct is free to visit at any time.
