Castellum aquae, Water distribution building in ancient Pompeii, Italy.
The Castellum Aquae is a water distribution structure in Pompeii featuring a circular basin with pipes at different elevations for channeling water to various districts. This facility served as the central hub where incoming water was redirected through lead pipes toward different areas of the city.
The Castellum Aquae received water from the Serino aqueduct that supplied the entire city, and sustained damage during an earthquake in 62 AD. The eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD preserved the structure in its damaged state.
The Castellum Aquae reveals how Romans managed the city's water supply and shaped daily life through this infrastructure. Visitors can observe how this structure was essential to serving private homes, public baths, and street fountains throughout the settlement.
The structure is accessible on foot within the archaeological site and sits at an elevated position, making it easy to spot and navigate to. Visitors should expect uneven ground typical of ancient ruins when walking around this location.
The installation featured a sophisticated gate system with breakwaters that allowed operators to fine-tune water pressure and redirect flow based on hourly needs. This early form of hydraulic control demonstrates how Romans tackled complex engineering challenges with practical solutions.
Location: Pompei
Part of: Pompeii, Aqua Augusta
Address: Scavi archeologici di Pompei - Regio VI - Fuori le mura - -
GPS coordinates: 40.75322,14.48417
Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:42
House of the Vettii
131 m
House of the Prince of Naples
68 m
House of the Dioscuri
163 m
House of Labyrinth
155 m
House of the Ara Maxima
79 m
Casa di Laocoonte
163 m
Tomb of Caius Vestorius Priscus
39 m
House of the Golden Cupids
128 m
House of Meleager
117 m
Torre di Mercurio
123 m
Casa di Apollo
146 m
Bar of Salvius
158 m
Thermopolium or Caupona of Salvius
157 m
House of M. Pupius Rufus (VI.15.5)
90 m
House of the Centaur (VI.9.3)
126 m
House of Fabii Tyrannus and Iarinus
155 m
Bakery (VI.14.32)
153 m
Casa di Iside ed Io (VI.9.1)
118 m
Shop (VI.7.22)
143 m
Porta Vesuvio necropolis
59 m
Domus of P. Antistius Maximus and L. Laelius Trophimus
154 m
House (VI.7.25)
131 m
House (VI.14.34)
154 m
Casa di L. Aurunculeius Secundio (VI.16.32)
95 m
Thermopolium (VI.16.40)
140 m
Casa di Erastus
106 m
Tomb of Marcus Veius Marcellus
32 m
House of Adonis (VI.7.18)
167 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes