Amoreira Aqueduct

Category: Civil Architecture > Aqueduct

District: Portalegre > Elvas > Elvas > Bairro da Belhó

Location

Near the historic city of Elvas, in the district of Portalegre, stands the Amoreira Aqueduct, a monumental structure that is remarkably integrated into the Alentejo landscape. It is visible from various points, serving as an architectural icon as one approaches the locality, especially in the Bairro da Belhó area. Its imposing presence stands out on the horizon, connecting the region's water sources to the fortified city.

History and Purpose

The construction of the Amoreira Aqueduct began in the 15th century, in 1498, during the reign of D. Manuel I, with the vital objective of ensuring the supply of drinking water to the city of Elvas. This large-scale undertaking extended over a long period, with its main construction phase developing between 1530 and 1622. The completion of the aqueduct was crucial for the city, not only for the daily lives of its inhabitants but also for its resilience capacity during sieges, ensuring an essential resource within the walls.

Architectural Grandeur

This remarkable example of Renaissance and Mannerist engineering impresses with its dimension and complexity. Built mostly with local granite stone and marble elements, the Amoreira Aqueduct extends for several kilometers, characterized by its successive arcades. Some of its sections reach considerable heights, with pillars supporting up to four orders of superimposed arches, reaching approximately 40 meters in height at the deepest points of the valleys. Its robustness and design are a testament to the advanced expertise of the builders of the time, making it one of the largest structures of its kind in Portugal.

Legacy and Visibility

The Amoreira Aqueduct is not only a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering; it is also an intrinsic part of Elvas's heritage and identity. Over the centuries, it has maintained its primary function and, even today, dominates the surrounding landscape with its grandeur. Its vast extension and majestic form offer a unique perspective on the interaction between the nature and human work, inviting contemplation of its scale and its historical and cultural significance.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aqueduto_da_Amoreira

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