Torre de l'Aigua, Modernist water tower in Sabadell, Spain.
The Torre de l'Aigua is an octagonal reinforced-concrete water tower near the Ripoll River in Sabadell. Eight pillars arranged like a truncated pyramid support the elevated tank, whose exterior is octagonal but whose interior is circular to avoid excess water pressure at the corners. A helical staircase links the pillars, and a lookout with iron balconies tops the tank. The tower stands 50 metres tall and holds 293.5 cubic metres.
The tower was completed in 1918 and supplied drinking water to Sabadell's residents for decades until decommissioning in 1967. Its architects applied modern building techniques that were innovative for the region at that time.
The tower is one of the 100 "Elements of Industrial Heritage of Catalonia" and is listed as a Bé Cultural d'Interès Local (register 1508-I). Guided visits are offered during the Festa Major, the first weekend of September. Its silhouette has become the identifying symbol of Sabadell.
You can visit the tower during guided tours, which typically take place in September when the city celebrates its main festivals. It is wise to check ahead since exact visiting conditions may change from year to year.
The structure blends practical water storage with artistic elements of Catalan Modernism, showing how industrial buildings were designed with aesthetic care from the start. This balance between function and beauty was distinctive for Sabadell's growing industrial community.
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