Cantalloc Aqueducts

Acueductos subterr%C3%A1neos de Cantalloc, Nazca, Per%C3%BA, 2015-07-29, DD 05

Cantalloc Aqueducts are a series of ancient aqueducts located near the city of Nasca, in the southern part of Peru. These aqueducts are an outstanding example of pre-Columbian engineering and are part of the Nasca culture's legacy. Constructed around 500 AD, the Cantalloc Aqueducts were designed for both irrigation and water supply purposes, showcasing the advanced understanding of hydraulic engineering by the Nasca people.

History

The Nasca culture, which flourished from approximately 100 AD to 800 AD, created the Cantalloc Aqueducts to manage and utilize the scarce water resources in the arid environment of the Nasca desert. These structures are a testament to the ingenuity of the Nasca civilization in overcoming the harsh conditions of their environment.

Design and Construction

The Cantalloc Aqueducts consist of a series of underground channels and above-ground structures known as puquios. The underground channels were constructed to tap into the subterranean water sources, while the puquios served as access and ventilation shafts. The construction involved the removal of large amounts of earth and rock, and the precise placement of stones to create the channels and shafts. This design not only facilitated the transport of water across long distances but also helped to filter and aerate the water, improving its quality.

Function and Use

The primary function of the Cantalloc Aqueducts was to provide a reliable source of water for irrigation and domestic use. By channeling water from underground sources, the Nasca people were able to cultivate crops such as maize, beans, and potatoes, supporting a substantial population in an otherwise inhospitable region. The aqueducts also played a crucial role in the religious and social life of the Nasca culture, as water was a vital resource and its management was likely controlled by the elite.

Preservation and Legacy

Today, the Cantalloc Aqueducts are recognized as an important cultural heritage site. Efforts have been made to preserve and maintain the aqueducts, some of which continue to supply water for irrigation. The site attracts tourists and researchers interested in the ancient engineering techniques and the history of the Nasca culture.

See Also

• Nasca Lines
• Hydraulic engineering
• Pre-Columbian America