Aqueduct of Saint Sebastian / Garden Arches

Category: Civil Architecture > Aqueduct

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Alta

Location

This impressive aqueduct is situated in the upper part of Coimbra, integrating singularly into the urban landscape in the vicinity of the University City. Its route partly follows Calçada Martim de Freitas, marking the area popularly known as Largo dos Arcos do Jardim, a name associated with its proximity to the renowned Botanical Garden of the University.

Origin and Historical Purpose

The construction of this monumental aqueduct dates back to the 16th century, having been erected between 1568 and 1570 by express order of King Sebastian. Its main purpose was to ensure the water supply to the highest part of the city, including the then-existing castle, by channeling water collected from Sete Fontes and other springs in the vicinity of Coimbra, located at a higher elevation. It is known that this work was built upon the remains of a previous Roman structure, partly reusing that historical legacy.

Structure and Route

Extending for about one kilometer, the aqueduct is composed of twenty arches rising over robust pillars. The arches are mostly semicircular, although some, which vary in width, exhibit a slightly lowered shape. The pillars feature visible steps on their outer faces, adding an additional dimension to their architecture.

The channel that carried the water runs over the arches, protected by a vault, and becomes underground in the section closest to what was formerly the College of São Bento, thus adapting to the terrain's topography.

Architectural Details

Along its course, the imposing Arch of São Sebastião stands out in particular. This arch, especially, presents a more elaborate artistic treatment and is positioned obliquely, following the course of an ancient road.

Above the arch, a cornice can be observed, adorned with the royal coat of arms and an armillary sphere, symbols of royalty, in addition to the Cross of Christ. Above the water channel, a small, very beautiful temple rises, with Doric columns, topped by a dome and a lantern. Inside this temple, there are two images, one of Saint Sebastian and another of Saint Roch, protectors against the plague. Recent restorations have revealed traces of polychromy on some elements of the arch, suggesting that the original stone may have had colorful accents, something common at the time.

Heritage Value

Recognized as a National Monument since 1910, the Aqueduct of São Sebastião, popularly known as Arcos do Jardim, transcends its original function as a water supply structure today. It is a cultural landmark and a central, unmistakable element in the landscape of Alta de Coimbra, inviting contemplation of its rich history and remarkable architecture within the contemporary urban context.

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