{"id":9790,"date":"2023-12-08T21:50:20","date_gmt":"2023-12-08T20:50:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.learnancientrome.com\/?p=9790"},"modified":"2023-12-08T21:50:20","modified_gmt":"2023-12-08T20:50:20","slug":"where-did-ancient-rome-get-their-water-from","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.learnancientrome.com\/where-did-ancient-rome-get-their-water-from\/","title":{"rendered":"Where Did Ancient Rome Get Their Water From"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Water is an important part of life, and it has been since ancient times. This is why it is no surprise that ancient Rome was known for its impressive water system. In this article, we will explore the sources of water that the Societas Aquae Romanorum (the Rome Water Society) used to supply the city and its residents. <\/p>\n

Ancient Rome was supplied with two main sources of water: the Tiber River and aqueducts. The river was Rome’s primary source of water for bathing, washing, and drinking. The aqueducts used gravity and clever engineering to bring water to the city from fresh water springs. The water from these sources was additionally treated and purified before being used. <\/p>\n

In total, there were 11 aqueducts built from 312 BC to 226 AD. They ran from 50 to 100 miles in length and were built at different heights so the water could navigate through Rome’s hilly terrain. The longest of these was the Aqua Appia, which was almost 40 miles long. The highest point on any aqueduct was the Aqua Claudia, which crossed over 250 feet in the air. <\/p>\n

The incredible engineering feat of the aqueducts allowed the city to get water into all sections of Rome, no matter its elevation. This enabled the city to grow and expand, as it was no longer limited by the amount of water it could access. It was able to stay clean, hydrated, and supplied with the water it needed to thrive. <\/p>\n