Zaghouan Aqueduct
Zaghouan
The Zaghouan Aqueduct, also known as the Aqueduct of Carthage, is a monumental ancient Roman engineering feat that supplied the city of Carthage, Tunisia, with fresh water. Originating from a sacred spring near Zaghouan in the Djebel Zaghouan mountain range, the aqueduct stretches approximately 132 kilometers, making it one of the longest aqueducts of the Roman Empire. The source features an elaborately constructed sacred fountain with a crescent-shaped portico, columns, and a cella, which was both a religious site and a functional water intake basin that filtered impurities. The aqueduct was built with an average decline of just 0.3%, allowing gravity to carry water efficiently over vast distances. Along its route, it includes impressive arcades that span plains near Oudna, Miliane, and La Soukra, with some structures reaching heights of up to 33 meters. The aqueduct was crucial for supplying water to Carthage's population and its grand baths, reflecting the city's importance and Roman architectural prowess. Today, parts of the aqueduct are recognized as an Important Bird Area, as its cavities serve as nesting sites for falcons and other birds, blending historical heritage with natural significance.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Zaghouan Aqueduct is during the cooler months to avoid the intense Tunisian heat. Visitors should consider arranging guided tours to fully appreciate the engineering marvel and historical context. While exploring, wear comfortable walking shoes as the site covers extensive terrain. Tickets may be available for purchase on site, but booking in advance could help avoid queues. No specific discounts are mentioned, but inquire locally about concessions for students or seniors.
Interesting facts
- •The aqueduct stretches over 132 km, making it one of the longest Roman aqueducts.
- •Its water channel drops only 264 meters over the entire length, averaging a decline of 0.3%.
- •The sacred fountain at the source features a crescent-shaped portico and was an important religious site in ancient North Africa.
- •The aqueduct’s cavities serve as nesting sites for falcons and other bird species, designating it as an Important Bird Area (TN013).
- •A 125-meter-long bridge on a double arcade, once part of the aqueduct at Oudna, was demolished in 1859 to reuse stones for new construction.
History
The Zaghouan Aqueduct was likely constructed in the early 2nd century AD, possibly inspired by Emperor Hadrian's visit in 128 AD during a severe drought and the opening of the Baths of Antonius in 162 AD, which demanded a reliable water supply.
Initially drawing from a sacred spring near Zaghouan, the aqueduct was later expanded in Severan times to include a second source near Djouggar.
Over centuries, it supplied water continuously to Carthage, showcasing Roman engineering excellence.
Some parts of the aqueduct’s arcades were dismantled in the 19th century for building materials, reflecting changes in the region’s infrastructure needs.
Place Guide
Sacred Fountain at Zaghouan2nd century AD
This artificial terrace houses the main spring feeding the aqueduct. It features a crescent-shaped portico with sandstone columns and vaulted travertine roofs covered in marble. The cella at its center was the spring’s origin and was richly decorated, serving both religious and practical functions in water purification.
Arcades at Oudna PlainRoman period
A 5 km stretch of the aqueduct elevated on arcades, including a 125-meter-long double arcade bridge that once reached 33 meters in height. This impressive structure was essential to maintain the water’s steady gradient across the plain but was dismantled in 1859.
Arcades at Miliane and La Soukra PlainsRoman period
These arcades span 2 km and 10 km respectively, with heights reaching up to 20 meters. They allowed the aqueduct to traverse uneven terrain while preserving the gentle slope necessary for water flow by gravity.
