Discover the giant stone aqueduct that crosses Lisbon and contributed so much to its development, providing generations of locals with water and withstanding the 1755 earthquake.
One of the most iconic images of Lisbon, the aqueduct provided the whole city with fresh drinking water when it was built in 1744. Erected during the reign of João V, who was responsible for many remarkable buildings, the ambitious baroque and neoclassical-style project is over 14 km in length. The most visible part of this magnificent structure is the Alcântara section which crosses the entire valley. It has 21 round arches and 14 pointed ones, the largest of which is 65 metres high and 29 metres across, making it the world’s largest. Many architects and engineers were involved in the construction of this colossus, which was still operational until 1968. It is possible to join a walking tour that provides a unique way to get to know this important monument.