Valens Aqueduct, Istanbul

The Valens Aqueduct, an ancient Roman water conduit, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of a bygone era in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Straddling the modern neighborhoods of Fatih and Şişli, this impressive structure was the major water-providing system for the Byzantines and later on for the Ottomans. Constructed by the Roman Emperor Valens in the late 4th century, the aqueduct has since become one of Istanbul's most distinctive landmarks.

Spanning approximately 971 meters in length, the Valens Aqueduct is a marvel of ancient architecture and urban infrastructure. Its highest point towers at around 29 meters, showcasing the grandeur of Roman construction techniques. The aqueduct originally formed part of a much larger water system that stretched over hundreds of kilometers, bringing fresh water from the Belgrade Forest and other sources to the city, then known as Constantinople.

Today, the aqueduct continues to capture the imagination of visitors with its robust arches and the historical narrative it carries. While the aqueduct no longer serves its original purpose, it remains an iconic bridge in Istanbul's skyline, offering a glimpse into the city's storied past. Tourists can walk along the base of this monumental structure, and some of the arches are even accessible to pedestrians, allowing for a closer inspection of its ancient stones.