The Los Arcos Aqueduct: A Historical and Engineering Gem in Alpuente
18 Aug 2026 · 10:50
The Los Serranos region in Valencia is home to fascinating treasures that are well worth a visit. Among them, the Los Arcos de Alpuente Aqueduct stands out in its own right—an impressive hydraulic structure that dominates the landscape just 2.5 kilometers north of the town.
A Glimpse into the Past and Its Architecture
Built between the late 16th and 17th centuries, this aqueduct was constructed to channel water from the Fuente Nueva and Fuente del Marimacho springs. Its mission was twofold: to supply the town’s needs and to irrigate the historic system of terraced gardens, bridging the elevation difference created by the Reguero River basin. Although it was once believed to be of Roman origin due to its proximity to walls from that era, historical records confirm its modern dating.
With a total length of 265.50 meters along an almost straight alignment, this engineering feat is remarkable for its technical details:
Structure and arches: It consists of thirteen arches in total. Ten of them are located on the right bank of the river (with lowered and three-pointed profiles), and three on the left bank, which are equilateral pointed arches equipped with buttresses to withstand the force of the water.
The upper channel: At the top, a U-shaped channel runs with a clear width of 0.33 meters and a gentle slope of approximately 1.5%.
Elevation Difference: It spans a maximum height of 10 meters above the Reguero Riverbed, gradually decreasing at its ends.
Resilience and Heritage
As with the great engineering feats of the past, the aqueduct has withstood the test of time and the ravages of nature. Tragically, a severe flood in 1880 swept away the main arch spanning the river. However, thanks to a meticulous restoration carried out between 1986 and 1988, the original layout was restored by incorporating two freestanding concrete arches that reconnect the entire structure.
Its heritage value is so immeasurable that it is not only one of the most unique examples of hydraulic engineering in the Valencian Community, but its silhouette also forms part of the town’s coat of arms.