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Greece is turning to its historical past in response to the modern challenges of climate change, restoring the use of the ancient Hadrian's Aqueduct to preserve Athens' water resources.
In response to increasingly severe droughts and water depletion, Athens authorities are implementing a project to reuse water from an ancient aqueduct, which was built in 140 AD by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. According to George Sachinis, the utility’s director of strategy and innovation Eydap, this unique building is “an archaeological and engineering marvel”, which could help the city conserve water. Using European Union funding, the government is restoring access to an underground 24-kilometer canal to irrigate Athens' green spaces without using drinking water.
Geologist Yannis Dafnos notes that the aqueduct originates at the foot of Mount Parnita, and its natural slope facilitates the movement of water towards the city center. The well in the suburb of Chalandri, more than 20 meters deep, is part of a network of 300 ancient water intakes that once supplied the city with water. Christos Geovanopoulos, project manager Cultural Hydrant, emphasizes that the restoration of this hydraulic system is not only an environmental but also a cultural project, highlighting the significance of the historical heritage. He also noted that during World War II, one of the wells was used as a shelter.
The modern project involves using the aqueduct's water to improve the urban environment and create new green areas.
In addition to the environmental impact, the authorities plan to turn the aqueduct into a tourist attraction: visitors will be able to descend into the reconstructed sections of the canal to see this engineering legacy with their own eyes. Ultimately, this project aims to make Athens more resilient to climate challenges while preserving the cultural artifacts of the past.
