Aqueduto das Aguas Livres

NileGuide Expert tip:

Ask about the macabre legend surrounding Diogo Alves, a 19th-century thief who allegedly threw his hapless victims over the edge of the public walkway that runs above the arches.

Description:

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  The aqueduct of free water ranks as one of the most impressive historical monuments in Lisbon. It's also one of the few structures that survived intact the devastating 1755 earthquake which levelled much of the city. Built from 1731748, its purpose was to supply fresh drinking water to the capital from a source 58 kilometres to the northwest. The main span of the aqueduct is nearly 940 metres long, with 35 arches that bridge the Alcântara valley, the tallest of which measures a spectacular 65 metres. It's possible to walk over these by booking a guided tour in advance at the Museu da Água.
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