The Romans always ensured that their cities have abundant supply of water for its citizens. That is why large complexes of Rome aqueducts were built over a span of 500 years.
You can still see some portions of the Roman aqueducts because these have been preserved or restored after the fall of the Empire. It is best therefore to take part in a walking tour along the Roman aqueducts.
You will be able to witness the engineering ingenuity of the ancient Romans and how medieval and Renaissance engineers tried to restore these marvels. This is also a good photo opportunity for you with the aqueducts and the Roman countryside serving as a backdrop.
The Different Rome Aqueducts
In order to fully appreciate the old grandeur of Rome aqueducts, it is best to know the 11 structures built for such purpose.
1. Aqua Appia – this was the first and oldest Roman aqueduct. It was 10.5 miles long.
2. Aqua Anio Vetus, Aqua Anio Novus, Aqua Marcia, and Aqua Claudia – these aqueducts got their source of water from the Anio River. The longest of these was the Anio Vetus with a length span of 40 miles.
You can still see large portions of Aqua Claudia within the city. You can also tour outside the city center to view and take shots of the enormous arched foundation structure of the Aqua Claudia.
3. Other Rome Aqueducts – Aqua Julia, Aqua Tepula, Alsietina, Virgo, Hadriana, and Augusta. These Rome aqueducts were built during the entire period of the Pax Romana.
You cannot help but admire the sights you can see if you visit certain portions of these aqueduct systems. A trip to Rome would be incomplete without seeing the elaborate complex of the 11 Rome aqueducts.
Fountains and Bathhouses
The aqueducts served as the primary sources of potable water inside the ancient city. At each endpoint of the aqueducts, a fountain was usually constructed. Romans also enjoyed public baths so the water also found its way into the famous Roman bathhouses.
The most famous fountain you should not miss is the Trevi Fountain. You can easily be captivated by the elaborate sculptures found at the Trevi Fountain.
At the Trevi Fountain, you will be able to see a depiction of the history of Rome aqueducts. There is a sculpture of the virgin there who directed the August soldiers to the water source. You can also marvel at the bas relief of Agrippa presenting the aqueduct project to Emperor Augustus.
It is no wonder that this fountain attracts so many tourists. Surely you do not want to go home without a photo of the marvelous pieces of sculptures found at the Trevi Fountain.
Scheduling a Tour of the Aqueducts
It is best if you can arrange a day tour of the Roman aqueducts during spring months. Mornings in Rome during spring would be very pleasant and windy. Your tour should start at the early mornings so you will be able to see everything.
During summer months, the best time to tour the Rome aqueducts is during late afternoons. At this time of the day, you will be able to catch the beautiful Roman sunset as the aqueducts cast enormous shadows. These would make wonderful background for your photographs.
