Visit Aqueduto dos Pegões
Table of Contents
Tomar is an amazing historical city full of majestic monuments of the past, among which the Aqueduto dos Pegões is a must visit. With over five hundred years of history, this ancient aqueduct is astonishing in its splendor and engineering prowess. Aqueduto dos Pegões is not only a technical masterpiece, but also a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage, which reflects its importance to the local history and culture.
Therefore, tourists should not miss the opportunity to visit this unique piece of architecture and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the past in the fascinating city of Tomar. After viewing this place, take a guided tour of the Convento en Ingles.
Tourist Information
The Christ Monastery Aqueduct, also known as the Pegões Aqueduct, is an impressive engineering structure created in the late 16th century to provide a water supply for the monastery. Construction began in 1593 by Italian architect Filippo Terzi and was completed in 1613. The aqueduct is almost 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long and for centuries remained the most important source of water for the monks who lived in the Convento de Cristo. Most tourists would actually be surprised to find such a huge structure in a small town like Tomar.
Spanning six kilometres, the aqueduct consists of 180 arches of perfect architecture. Innovative methods were used in its construction, such as supporting the arches in a set of 16 broken arches over the Pegões valley. At the ends of the structure are water pools for water purification.
The aqueduct’s location in the Pegões Valley offers magnificent views and the possibility of walking on its platform, at a height of 30 meters. However, a visit requires caution due to the lack of protection against accidental falls.
The Pegões Aqueduct is a national monument and remains one of Portugal’s most important engineering structures. A visit to it is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the historical heritage of the city of Tomar, complementing a walk through the majestic Convent of Christ.
It is possible to visit the site in the Portuguese year, but the aqueduct is best visited during the warm season when you can enjoy the beauty of nature around you. Care should be taken, especially when walking on the heights, and remember that the Pegões Aqueduct is not only of historical value but also a potential safety risk.
Interesting Facts
- Historical background: The Pegões Aqueduct, also known as the Christ Monastery Aqueduct, was built in the late 16th century during the reign of Philip I of Portugal. It was intended to provide a water supply for the Christ Monastery and is an impressive piece of engineering of the time.
- Nearby attractions: The Pegões Aqueduct is close to the majestic Christ Monastery, which is one of the main historical sites in Tomar. Also nearby is the historic city center with its narrow streets, museums and restaurants.
- LifeHacks for visiting: Climbing to the top of the aqueduct on the platform accompanying the gutter will provide a unique perspective on its architecture and surrounding landscape. However, it is worth keeping safety in mind and being extremely cautious due to the lack of protection. In addition, to see the special beauty of the aqueduct, it is worth visiting it at dusk, when the warm colors of late evening create an amazing atmosphere and emphasize the grandeur of the structure.
- National Monument: Since 1920, the Pegões Aqueduct has been officially recognized as a Portuguese national monument, highlighting its historical and cultural importance to the country.
- Amazing views: From the top of the aqueduct, there are spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, including the Pegões Valley. This provides unique opportunities for photography and enjoying nature.
- An important place in history: The Aqueduto Pegões not only served a practical purpose in providing a water supply for the monastery but also has significant historical importance as a symbol of technological progress and Portugal’s cultural heritage.
Open Hours
The Pegões Aqueduct is probably available to visit at any time of the day. This provides a unique opportunity to enjoy its majestic architecture and the surrounding landscape at different times of the day, including dawn, daytime and sunset.
Tickets
Nowadays, a visit to the Pegões Aqueduct is free of charge, without the need to buy a ticket. This opportunity allows tourists to enjoy the beauty of this historic structure.
Address
The aqueduct is just 3 km from the center of Tomar. Address: Aqueduto do Convento de Cristo, Vale dos Pegões Tomar 2305-203.
How to Get to Aqueduto dos Pegões
The aqueduct is only 3 km from the center of Tomar. Look on Google Maps for the address of this place. One of the best options is to reach the place by car, the journey will take up to 15 minutes.
