Acueducto de Albear, Colonial water supply system in Havana, Cuba
The Albear Aqueduct is a water supply system stretching over 30 kilometers from Vento springs to Havana, using tunnels and canals to distribute water across the landscape. The infrastructure incorporates gravity flow technology that moves water without needing pumps or electricity throughout its network.
Construction began in 1858 under engineer Francisco de Albear to solve Havana's chronic water shortage. The project was completed in 1893, years after Albear's death, fundamentally changing how the city received water for decades to come.
The structure carries the name of its creator Francisco de Albear, reflecting his lasting impact on Cuban engineering and infrastructure. Walking through Havana, visitors can spot sections of this historic system that shaped how the city developed and grew.
The system is visible at various points throughout Havana, especially where reservoirs and open canals are easy to spot. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when you can clearly see the structure and how different sections fit together.
The system was displayed at the 1878 Paris Universal Exhibition and earned international recognition as a technical achievement. This global exposure showcased Cuban engineering capabilities to the world during the Spanish colonial era.
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