Pegões Aqueduct
Santarém
The Pegões Aqueduct, also known as the Convent of Christ Aqueduct, is an impressive hydraulic engineering marvel constructed to supply water to the Convent of Christ in Tomar from four different springs. Spanning approximately 6 kilometers, it was designed by Filippo Terzi in 1584 and built between 1593 and 1614 under the reign of Philip I of Portugal. After Terzi's death, Pedro Fernando de Torres continued the work, completing the main structure, with the monumental fountain in the convent's main cloister marking its completion in 1619. The aqueduct features about 180 arches, including a striking section over the Pegões valley with 58 rounded arches resting on 16 pointed arches. Water flowed by gravity along a channel with a height difference of over 26 meters. Originally intended to provide water for the convent and its agricultural lands, it later also supplied the town of Tomar. The aqueduct was used until the mid-20th century and has undergone various conservation efforts, including structural reinforcement in recent years. Classified as a National Monument since 1910, it remains a significant symbol of Portugal's Renaissance architecture and engineering heritage, blending functionality with monumental aesthetic qualities.
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Astuce: Visitors should consider exploring the Pegões Aqueduct during spring or early autumn when the weather is mild and vegetation is less dense, enhancing views of the structure. It is advisable to check local access conditions in advance and consider guided tours that provide historical context. While the site is open for exploration, some sections may be fragile; respecting preservation rules is essential. No advance ticket purchase is required, but joining organized visits can enrich the experience. Discounts may be available for students and seniors.
Faits intéressants
- •The aqueduct has approximately 180 arches, with a special section over the Pegões valley consisting of 58 rounded arches resting on 16 pointed arches known as 'pegões'.
- •Water flowed by gravity along the aqueduct with a total height difference of 26.28 meters between source and destination.
- •The monumental fountain in the convent's main cloister marks the completion of the aqueduct's water delivery system in 1619.
- •The aqueduct was classified as a National Monument in Portugal in 1910.
- •The structure was used to supply water until the mid-20th century and underwent major conservation works between 2009 and 2017.
Histoire
The Pegões Aqueduct's construction began in 1593 during the reign of Philip I of Portugal, commissioned to supply water to the Convent of Christ and its surrounding lands.
Designed by Filippo Terzi, the project was taken over by Pedro Fernando de Torres after Terzi's death in 1597.
The main structure was completed in 1614, and the water channel extended into the convent itself by 1619, culminating with the monumental fountain in the main cloister.
Over the centuries, the aqueduct underwent repairs and expansions, including new water sources added in 1752 and allowing the town of Tomar to use part of the water supply in 1842.
By the 20th century, the structure suffered from neglect, theft, and vandalism, prompting conservation efforts from the late 20th century through 2017 to preserve and stabilize the aqueduct.
Guide du lieu
Pegões Valley Arches1593-1614
This section features 58 rounded arches supported by 16 pointed arches, built over the deepest part of the Pegões valley. It is a striking example of Renaissance engineering and the namesake 'pegões' give the aqueduct its popular name.
Main Cloister Fountain1619
Located inside the Convent of Christ, this monumental fountain was completed in 1619 as the final point of the aqueduct's water supply. Designed by Pedro Fernando de Torres, it symbolizes the aqueduct's successful delivery of water to the convent.
Contact
Téléphone: 249 315 089