On water supply, distribution and sewerage system in Gades

Abstract

The Roman aqueduct of Cádiz has been the main subject of numerous studies, from the 16th century. Authors like A. de Horozco or Suárez de Salazar have approached to different aspects regarding to this hydraulic building, question that have occupied several chapters in their most known books. Despite this enormous bibliography, the hydraulic structures exhumed in the city of Cádiz have not been analysed enough. This situation is more surprising when it is stated that, though the volume of remains is not excessive, the available information indeed is abundant.This work aims to present a typological and functional analysis of the Roman structures for obtaining, storage and distribution of water at the Roman Gades pomerium associated. Its review and analysis has allowed us to detect the evolution of structures and techniques of hydraulic supply in the city, as well as the disposal of liquid waste. These data also provide significant information on the possible urban plan of Cádiz.

Keywords

• urbanismo romano
• baetica
• instalaciones hidráulicas
• castellum aquae
• cisterna
• aquae ductus
• evacuación.