Olba Aqueduct, Roman aqueduct in Silifke, Turkey.
The Olba Aqueduct is a Roman water channel made of granite that spans the landscape with multiple arches, once carrying water from a river to the ancient city. The structure shows a series of column arches through which water flowed, demonstrating the careful planning of Roman water engineers.
The water channel was built in the late 2nd century to supply a settlement of importance at that time. The structure links the history of a local power with Roman expansion in the Cilicia region.
The aqueduct shows how Romans used engineering skill to supply settlements in dry regions. Visitors see here a sign of Roman power, which imposed its construction methods and supply systems even in remote territories.
The monument lies in a rural area south of Silifke and is best reached on foot when exploring the local paths of the region. The surroundings offer little shade, so visitors should bring water and sun protection.
Inscriptions on the structure bear the city's name, preserving the connection to a local kingdom that minted its own coins. These inscriptions are rare evidence of an independent local power under Roman rule.
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