Aqueduct of Segovia

The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most significant and best-preserved ancient monuments left on the Iberian Peninsula, in Spain. The aqueduct is the city's most important architectural landmark and was in operations till the 20th century. The aqueduct transported waters from Fuente Fría river, situated in the nearby mountains, some 17 km from the city. It runs another 15 km before arriving in the city. At its tallest, the aqueduct reaches a height of 28.5 m including nearly 6 m of foundation and supported by a total of 167 arches.
The aqueduct is built of unmortared, brick-like granite blocks. During the Roman era, each of the three tallest arches displayed a sign in bronze letters, indicating the name of its builder along with the date of construction. Today, two niches are still visible, one on each side of the aqueduct. One of them is known to have held the image of Hercules, who according to legend was the founder of the city. The other niche now contains the images of the Virgen de la Fuencisla (the Patroness of Segovia) and Saint Stephen.