NUEVO ANÁSILIS DEL SIFÓN INVERTIDO DE LOS ARQUILLOS, ACUEDUCTO ROMANO DE <em>GADES</em>

Abstract

The Roman aqueduct of Gades had several inverted syphons throughout its length. One ofthem is known as the syphon of Los Arquillos, enabling the stream of Salado de Paternade Rivera to cross it. The syphon was composed of a set of pipes built with ashlars in which circular holes were drilled. In the area of the stream the syphon also had a 15-metre high venter that protected it against the flooding of the stream and reduced the maximum pressure reached inside the piping. The syphon was also equipped with a series of special elements, such as intermediate towers that contributed to its operation. The role of these towers is currently being studied and several hypotheses are presented in this paper. Thesyphon’s ground plan and its longitudinal profile have also been revised on the basis of the new archaeological remains found in the field.