The Greek capital of Athens has embarked on a remarkable initiative to reactivate its ancient Hadrianic aqueduct, dating back over 2,000 years, amid soaring temperatures and increasing water scarcity. This landmark project aims to conserve the city's precious drinking water supply by channeling non-potable water for irrigation and other uses.
June 2024 marked the hottest month on record for Athens, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius during the day and not dropping below 30 at night. Citizens faced extreme discomfort, compelling city officials to seek alternative solutions to mitigate the impact of the relentless heat. One significant measure is the resurrection of the aqueduct originally commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, which runs approximately 23 kilometers, primarily underground, summoning water from the nearby Parnitha Mountain.
This initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Athens Water Works and officials from the EU, who recognize the growing challenges posed by climate change on water systems across Europe. The revival of the hadrianic structure not only serves practical purposes but also reenvisions the use of historical infrastructure for sustainable development.
Katerina Dimitrou, the head of the Athens Water Works, praised the aqueduct as “an architectural achievement of its time.” She emphasized its modern relevance as the city grapples with severe water shortages exacerbated by tourist influx during peak summer months. The aqueduct, she noted, is currently underutilized, as its water has been flowing unchecked to the sea. This project aims to change the narrative and promote more responsible water use.
To accomplish this, new pipelines are being installed to effectively channel the water from the aqueduct to residents. This mammoth undertaking will provide non-potable water suitable for gardening, landscaping, and agricultural activities—allowing citizens to reserve drinking water for necessity.
Project leader Christos Giovanopoulos shared insights on the importance of groundwater utilization, stating, “The more water is consumed, the more will flow back.” This clever adaptation of the aqueduct will not only aid residents but also contribute to generating additional green spaces within the city. Such areas will help cool down the urban environment by acting as natural air conditioners, thereby mitigating the heat island effect palpable during the summer months.
Despite the significant engineering and logistical challenges involved, the team is optimistic about the project’s potential. Incorporation of vast green spaces along the aqueduct's route, which connects affluent neighborhoods like Kolonaki to other parts of the city, may inspire behavioral changes among citizens toward more sustainable agricultural and water usage practices.
The project has received backing from the #WaterWiseEU initiative, aimed at promoting improved water protection, efficiency, and sustainability across European water systems. Exemplifying how collaboration among local authorities, government bodies, and European organizations can bolster regional efforts against climate-induced hardships, this project stands out as a beacon of innovation and heritage intersecting.
While the aqueduct was first constructed nearly two millennia ago as part of Hadrian’s legacy—a homage to his affection for Athens—it now finds renewed purpose. Residents are being urged to recognize the value of drinking water and to make wiser choices concerning its usage.
The Hadrianic aqueduct serves as a reminder of ancient ingenuity, transformed for contemporary needs. With global climatic shifts threatening water resources, Athens stands at the frontline, demonstrating how to embrace historical legacies to address present-day environmental challenges dynamically.
Through the combination of persisting wisdom and modern technology, this venture exemplifies the path forward—where sustainability and historical preservation go hand-in-hand, potentially ushering Athens toward becoming more resilient against the perils of climate change.
