Aqueduct of Valens

This is the section of the Roman aqueduct built in the second half of the 4th century under the reign of Emperors Constantius II and Valens to supply fresh water to Constantinople. It can be seen very well from the Fatih Memorial Park and Sarachane Park on the west side of the aqueduct The Valens Aqueduct was used for many centuries and today stands as a testament to the 4th century architecture and building capabilities of the Byzantines. Today you can enjoy seeing the ancient structures at it height of 29 metres from the two urban parks mentioned above and to lesser degrees at some of the tale ends of the aqueduct near the Vezneciler Metro Station. It makes for really nice photos when sky conditions are favourable and is worth a few minutes viewing if planning to spent time in this area of the city.

Impressive historical landmark in the heart of Istanbul. The structure is massive and well-preserved, offering a glimpse into Roman engineering. It’s a great stop for history lovers and photographers. Easily accessible and worth a short visit while exploring the old city.

Aqueduct built by Valens to bring water to Istanbul from over hundred kilometres away, incredible building

This should be more on the tourist map. I first visited maybe 29 years ago when it was still possible to climb up on the aqueduct- which has several km in sections still remaining. These days there are cafe outdoor sears in the cool shade of the arches and it’s in magnificent condition in places.

I’m a Roman nerd so I loved this. Remains of an aqueduct that stretched 600km to Sofia. The bit I saw is spanning a major road and modern traffic still drives through 1600-1700 year old arches.

Built in the late IV century AD. Completed in 373 by the Emperor Valens (364–378). Initially 268 kilometres (167 miles) long, it was extended in the V century by adding another 451 kilometres (280 miles). The aqueduct fed three large open-air cisterns in parts of the city outside the 4th-century Constantinian Walls: the Cistern of Mocius, the Cistern of Aspar, and the Cistern of Aetius altogether 607,715 cubic metres (21,461,300 cu ft) of water.

Old aqueduct, middle part Is not accessible as there is a road. There are two small parks on both sides so you can sit and enjoy the view. Easy access by bus, 2 minutes from the bus stop. If you go further the road there are old cisterns and the view on the golden horn.

You can touch history here and think about the changes that have happened since the aqueduct was constructed in 346 CE. The men climbing to build it every day could never have conceived that 1700 years later, it would still be standing in its original form with self-propelled metal vehicles moving at astronomical speeds (to them) under their workplace.