Old North Levada

Category: Civil Architecture > Quay

District: Madeira > Ribeira Brava > Serra de Água

Location and Setting

The "Old Levada do Norte" is located in the town of Serra de Água, in the municipality of Ribeira Brava. This stretch of the levada, nestled in the mountainous topography of the island's center, offers an authentic perspective on the rural Madeiran landscapes. The area is characterized by deep valleys and green slopes, where the presence of the levada shapes the landscape, revealing human ingenuity in harmony with nature. Being here is immersing oneself in a tranquil environment, far from the hustle and bustle, where the sounds of the wind and nature prevail.

Legacy and Original Function

The Levada do Norte, built between 1947 and 1952, represented a remarkable feat of Madeiran engineering in its time. Stretching for dozens of kilometers, its primary function was vital: to supply water for irrigation to extensive cultivated areas in the southern part of the island, covering over a thousand hectares. Additionally, this hydraulic structure supplied the Serra de Água Hydroelectric Power Station, contributing to energy production. Its inauguration was a significant event, attended by high-ranking state officials, underscoring the importance of this work for Madeira's development.

A Walk Through Time

The section now known as the "Old Levada do Norte" is special because it no longer carries water. Following landslides, the watercourse was diverted through a new tunnel. This fact lends the site a distinct atmosphere, allowing visitors to observe the original canal architecture and its dry bed, like a vestige of the past. It is a unique opportunity to appreciate nature's resilience and how the route has transformed, while still maintaining its structure and the path that follows what was once an important watercourse.

Landscape and Serenity

Along this route, visitors find themselves immersed in a landscape that invites observation. Although the levada has no water in this segment, its surroundings continue to offer views of the valleys and slopes that characterize Serra de Água. The lush vegetation, typical of the local flora, lines the path, providing a serene natural environment. There are points where one can glimpse the grandeur of the valleys and the rocky formations that bear witness to the island's geology, offering moments of contemplation and connection with the tranquility of the Madeiran countryside.

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