Aqueduct of the Convent of Christ or Pegões Aqueduct

Category: Civil Architecture > Aqueduct

District: Santarém > Tomar > Carregueiros > Uchas

Location:

Located in the village of Carregueiros, in the municipality of Tomar, the aqueduct stretches through a rural landscape characterized by gentle valleys and small elevations. The imposing arcades emerge among cultivated areas, vineyards, and forest patches, providing a unique natural setting.

The most emblematic point is located over the Pegões valley, where the structure rises to approximately 30 meters in height. In this environment, it is possible to appreciate the contrast between the stone arches and the horizon, dominated by the Sete Montes National Forest.

Origin and Function

The construction began in 1593, during the reign of Philip I of Portugal, and was completed in 1619 by order of Philip II. Under the initial direction of master architect Filippo Terzi and, later, Pedro Fernandes de Torres, the aqueduct was intended to conduct water by gravity from four underground springs to the Convent of Christ.

With approximately 6.2 km of stone piping, covered by slabs, the system ensured the supply to both the convent's cloisters and the surrounding agricultural lands, remaining in operation for over three centuries.

Architecture and Technique

The conduit combines superficial, buried, and elevated sections, totaling 180 perfect round arches. The monumental stretch at Pegões features 58 full-turn arches supported by 16 ogival pillars, forming one of the most notable aerial sections.

The half-pipe channel, with an elliptical cross-section, transports water through male-female joints and lime mortar, maintaining a uniform gradient between 0.2% and 1.5% to ensure stable flow to the final destination.

Landscape and Environment

Around the aqueduct, the wooded slopes and cultivated fields create a highly scenic route. The presence of eucalyptus trees and the gentle relief invite leisurely walks, allowing one to discover vestiges of the ancient springs and water houses, some with visible domes from the exterior.

For photography enthusiasts, the elevated arches over the Pegões valley offer impressive compositions, especially at sunset, when the stone acquires golden hues and highlights the historical textures of the structure.

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

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