How Hadrian Aqueduct is saving Athens amid climate change

Athens is turning to its historical past for a solution to its modern water crisis. The once-thriving Hadrian Aqueduct, which supplied water to the city for centuries before falling into disrepair, is being revived to address the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity. According to a report by The New York Times, the project is not only a local effort but also serves as a model for other European countries facing similar issues.

Ancient Roman legacy

The Hadrian Aqueduct, named after the Roman emperor who commissioned its construction in the 2nd century, was vital in supplying water to Athens during the Roman Empire.

Over the centuries, the aqueduct delivered water through an extensive 15-mile underground network, and it is still regarded as Europe’s longest functioning subterranean aqueduct. Despite its historical significance, the aqueduct was largely abandoned in the early 20th century after the construction of Athens’ first major reservoir, which met the city’s growing water demands.

Reviving Hadrian Aqueduct for modern needs

In response to the ongoing water crisis exacerbated by global warming, Athens is taking a bold step by reviving this ancient structure. The project is a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, local authorities, and the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company (EYDAP). Katerina Dimitrou, from EYDAP, explained, “We have an ancient monument and engineering marvel that we are bringing back to life to conserve water and cool the city.”

The main aim of this initiative is to support water supply, irrigate green spaces, and promote a “new water culture” in the city. As the aqueduct still follows its original route, it will also provide a natural cooling effect to the surrounding areas.

Solution to Athens’ water shortages

The pilot project is based in the suburb of Halandri, where it has already begun to make an impact. Christos Giovanopoulos, the project manager for the local municipality of Halandri, revealed that water, which was previously wasted as it flowed unused through the aqueduct, will now be redirected for use in homes, schools, and parks. The new 2.5-kilometer pipeline, which is expected to be completed by March, will provide an additional water source for residents. “The first six months of water distribution will be free,” Giovanopoulos added.

While the water supplied will not be potable, it will be used for purposes like washing and irrigation. The initiative aims to save over 250 million gallons of water annually once it is extended to seven municipalities along the aqueduct’s path. While this represents a small fraction of the city’s total water consumption, the project promises to create a significant impact by also irrigating green spaces, enhancing the city’s ecological sustainability.

Supported by a €3.1 million ($3.2 million) EU grant, the project has already garnered international recognition for its innovation and potential to serve as a model for other European cities. Municipalities like Serpa in Portugal, which plans to revive a 17th-century aqueduct for similar purposes, have expressed interest in Athens’ project as a guide. “The idea of reusing water for public irrigation and creating new green spaces while engaging the local community is a great model,” said Miguel Serra, a municipal official from Serpa.

Awareness and community involvement

While many Athenians remain unaware of the Hadrian Aqueduct’s existence or the plans to revive it, local officials are working to increase awareness. The central reservoir of the aqueduct, located in Dexameni Square, is a popular spot, but few know its historical significance. Local authorities have partnered with a non-profit group to offer tours and educate residents about the aqueduct’s potential.

One of the residents actively involved in the project is Christina Christidou, who helped organize workshops and is now lobbying for her neighborhood’s connection to the aqueduct. “We used to leave water running, but now we’re very mindful of our consumption,” said Christidou, who is a member of the Hadrian Society, which advocates for the aqueduct’s water distribution.

Long-term solution

Officials acknowledge that changing public attitudes toward water conservation will take time, but they are optimistic about the project’s long-term impact. Giovanopoulos concluded, “We can either discourage people from wasting water, or we can encourage them to use other resources more responsibly. This is a more positive approach.”

Revival of the Hadrian Aqueduct offers not only a solution to Athens’ immediate water challenges but also an opportunity to rethink urban water management on a global scale.