The 167 arches of the Segovia Aqueduct

The Aqueduct of Segovia is a Roman structure built to channel water from springs in the mountains 17 kilometres away to Segovia's fountains, public baths, and private houses. While it was long thought to have been constructed during the 1st century AD under the reigns of Domitian, Nerva, and Trajan, 2016 archaeological evidence points to a date after 112 AD, possibly during the government of Trajan or at the beginning of the government of Emperor Hadrian from 117 AD. The aqueduct is built of unmortared, brick-like granite blocks and is one of the best-preserved Roman aqueduct bridges.

The structure features an elevated section with a complete arcade of 167 arches, reaching a height of 28.5 metres at its tallest point. From the point it enters the city until it reaches Plaza de Díaz Sanz, it includes 75 single arches and 44 double arches, followed by four single arches. During the Roman era, each of the three tallest arches displayed a sign in bronze letters indicating the name of its builder and the date of construction. Today, two niches remain visible; one once held an image of Hercules, who according to legend founded the city, and now contains an image of the Virgin.

The aqueduct was restored during the reign of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, led by Don Pedro Mesa, who rebuilt 36 arches with care to preserve the original style. Later, in the 16th century, the central niches and statues were placed on the structure. The aqueduct remained in use until 1973. It is the city's most important architectural landmark and is featured on the city's coat of arms. Because of deterioration from water leakage and pollution, it was listed in the 2006 World Monuments Watch.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons