Coal Aqueduct

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Açores > Ponta Delgada > Ponta Delgada > Arrifes

Location

The Carvão Aqueduct is located in the parish of Arrifes, a residential and quieter area of the city of Ponta Delgada. Its location allows visitors to observe a distinct facet of urban and suburban life, far from the bustle of the center, but still integrated into the fabric of the largest city in the Azores. Although it does not offer panoramic views of the city, its presence contributes to the serene environment of the surrounding area, providing a point of interest that invites a calmer and more detailed exploration.

Water Heritage

This aqueduct represents an important piece of the history and development of Ponta Delgada. Its construction, initiated between the 17th and 18th centuries by order of the Municipal Chamber, had the primary purpose of ensuring the water supply to the city, a vital necessity for the growth of the population and local activities. The water was captured from distant springs, namely the Canário and Empadadas lagoons, and transported through this extensive network to urban areas, including the former parish of Santa Clara. The Carvão Aqueduct is, therefore, a testament to the planning and execution capacity of past generations in solving fundamental challenges.

Stone Arches and Ingenuity

Architecturally, the Carvão Aqueduct stands out for its robust stone arches, which extend and integrate into the landscape. These arches are not just supporting elements, but also a remarkable example of the engineering of the time, designed to efficiently and durably cross valleys and terrain gradients. The solidity of its construction and the technique employed in its structural elements have allowed this monumental work to withstand time, continuing to be a striking element in the Azorean scenery. Its structure reflects human ingenuity in adapting the natural environment to the needs of the community.

A Bridge to the Past

Visiting the Carvão Aqueduct is taking a break from the present and connecting with the past of São Miguel Island. Its grandeur, even if discreet in the urban landscape, invites reflection on the importance of water and the effort required to transport and distribute it in an era without modern technologies. This site offers a perspective on historical engineering and how the city of Ponta Delgada was shaped over the centuries. It is an invitation to contemplate the resilience and inventiveness that characterize local history.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt