Almuñécar Roman aqueduct
The Roman aqueduct in Almuñécar, built around the 1st century CE, is a remarkable testament to the city’s Roman heritage, alongside the well-preserved fish salting factory. This aqueduct served as a vital water supply for the ancient Roman city of Sexi (now Almuñécar), and later played a role in the Arab irrigation system. Even today, parts of it continue to support traditional irrigation practices, making it the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Andalusia.
This aqueduct is quite extensive, spanning over 7 kilometers and divided into five distinct sections. In its prime, it featured a complex network of tunnels, siphons, arched covers, and open stretches, all designed to transport clean water for various purposes, including the fish salting industry.
Five sections of the aqueduct still stand, showcasing its impressive preservation. Notable among these are Torrecuevas, La Carrera, and segments I, II, and III of Río Seco. Each of these sections has its unique architectural features, with the Carrera de la Concepción portion spanning 91 meters and boasting twelve arches. Meanwhile, the Torrecuevas section, situated near the Río Verde, extends 130 meters and includes the tallest visible stretch. The III section is particularly awe-inspiring, measuring 72 meters and characterized by two distinct structures with nine main arches.
The aqueduct’s water source was located in La Angostura area near Jete, by the Río Verde. Here stood the castellum acquae, a reservoir for distributing water, believed to be situated at the highest point of the area. In addition to the well-preserved irrigation sections still in use and underground channels, there were several sectors where the conduit utilized aqueducts to navigate the terrain. This aqueduct has been recognized as a Cultural Heritage Site since 1931.
To explore the aqueduct, accessible sections are found in the Torrecuevas neighborhood, integrated into a spacious square. Additionally, three less-frequented yet exceptionally beautiful stretches are located along the course of the Río Seco, offering a picturesque approach to Almuñécar through the countryside. These sections feature multiple arches of varying heights, ingeniously designed to accommodate the natural slope of the terrain. The last of these sections is also situated in a small park named “Parque El Acueducto,” accessible from the highest point of the San Sebastián neighborhood. Visitors can reach it by turning left at the end of the road’s ascent from the Suspiro del Moro viewpoint and descending to the Río Seco area where the park is located.
The most well-known accessible section for visitors is the one in the Carrera de la Concepción, integrated into the town and accompanied by the ruins of Roman baths. There is no entrance fee or specific opening hours for the aqueduct, except for the Parque del Acueducto area, which has set opening times from 9am to 9pm.
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