Genius Maintenance Secrets of Aqueduct of Constantinople Revealed

Aqueducts have been studied by archaeologists, engineers, architects, and urban planners for centuries. But even now, Roman aqueducts still have fascinating secrets to reveal, as scientists from Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany recently discovered when looking at the aqueduct of Constantinople. Seeking to learn more about the aqueduct of Constantinople’s maintenance procedures, a team of researchers affiliated with the Department of Earth Sciences at JGU-Mainz performed an extensive study of the longest Roman aqueduct in existence, which was reported on by Science Alert.

Roman aqueducts evoke feelings of respect and wonder in all who see them. These architectural marvels stand as monuments to Roman creativity, ingenuity, and dedication to quality workmanship. The remnants of these ancient water channels, which ably supplied Roman Empire cities with enough water to meet the needs of all their citizens, can still be found in many places.

The Aqueduct of Constantinople is also known as the Aqueduct of Valens, a 265-mile (426-kilometer) long structure that supplied the city of Constantinople (modern Istanbul) with water for hundreds of years.

Carbonate deposit from the aqueduct of Constantinople showing around 25 annual layers. (Cees Passchier / Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz)