Usseira Aqueduct

Category: Civil Architecture > Aqueduct

District: Leiria > Óbidos > Óbidos > Urbanização de Santa Iria

Location

The Usseira Aqueduct, also known as the Óbidos Aqueduct, is located in the Santa Iria Urbanization area, in the municipality of Óbidos. This structure extends from the locality of Usseira to the village of Óbidos, crossing a valley. Its location offers a visual setting that harmonizes the built heritage with the natural and semi-rural landscape of the region, in the immediate vicinity of the village's south side.

A 16th Century Legacy

This remarkable engineering project was built in the 16th century, around 1573, at the initiative of D. Catarina of Austria, Queen of Portugal. Its primary purpose was to ensure the supply of potable water to the prosperous village of Óbidos, which faced scarcity issues. The work demonstrated a forward-thinking vision for its time, significantly improving the living conditions of the inhabitants. The historical and architectural importance of the Usseira Aqueduct is officially recognized, having been classified as a Public Interest Property since 1962.

Engineering Features and Scenic Beauty

The aqueduct extends for approximately six kilometers, divided into three distinct sections. Although part of its course is underground, the most visible and imposing segment is an arcade approximately two and a half kilometers long. This elevated section was designed to cross the Vale dos Arcos (Valley of Arches), connecting the two hills.

Built of ashlar and limestone masonry, the aqueduct consists of a single tier of arches. The robustness of the construction and the regularity of its round arches, some slightly broken to adapt to the paths they cross, are a testament to the skill of the builders of that era. Observing this ancient structure, set in an environment of fields and vegetation, provides a peaceful discovery experience, where the history of engineering meets the beauty of the Óbidos landscape.

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