Water, throughout history, has been one of humanity’s most essential resources and needs. Apart from being a fundamental beverage, it has also been crucial for personal hygiene, livestock, and agricultural production. Humans, particularly throughout history, have centered their lives around this essential resource. Consequently, the earliest settlements were established near valuable water basins. Cities and villages have always thrived near water sources, shaping the way we live and build our communities.
Water plays a significant role in both Turkish and Islamic civilizations. Our civilization has even been referred to as a “water civilization.” Numerous references to water can be found in the Quranic verses and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Islam, especially through the teachings of the Prophet, has emphasized the importance of water. The concept of “Ab-ı Hayat” or “Water of Life” has been a crucial part of our civilization, intertwined with our tradition of building fountains and endowing water.
Throughout history, settlements were established beyond water sources due to security and protection concerns. Societies attempted to address the challenge of accessing water through various urban planning and settlement policies. Especially in modern times, historical artifacts like “Aqueducts” have been constructed in central locations of cities as a result of this thinking. The construction of aqueducts was essential due to the need for water to flow smoothly with the right gradient and reach the city.
Aqueducts are not only a model utilized by various ancient civilizations but have also been employed in the Ottoman Empire. Ottoman rulers continued this practice by constructing aqueducts in different regions of the empire to address water needs. In particular, Istanbul is rich in aqueducts, showcasing their historical significance. Notably, Istanbul, which has always faced water-related challenges, has sought solutions and implemented preventive measures over the centuries.
One of the most important aqueducts in Istanbul is the Bozdoğan Aqueduct, located within the boundaries of the Fatih district. Built during the Late Roman and Early Christian periods, this aqueduct is considered one of the most significant water conduits constructed in Istanbul. Another renowned aqueduct, the Mâzul Aqueduct, can be found on the Taksim Water System.
The Ottoman Empire also built many aqueducts in other parts of its territories to provide water for various regions. Particularly in the Balkans, where the Ottomans had a dominant presence, they undertook numerous urban development projects, including constructing aqueducts to meet the basic needs of the population.
Although aqueducts may no longer be in use in major cities like Istanbul, they continue to stand as historical monuments, shedding light on our civilization. These architectural marvels, built with both engineering precision and aesthetic considerations, remain captivating to this day.
In modern times, while cities have found alternative methods to meet their water needs, local communities in villages and towns continue to build miniature aqueducts for their specific needs. While major cities like Istanbul no longer rely on aqueducts, these historical structures still illuminate our civilization. The artistic and aesthetic beauty of aqueducts continues to dazzle observers, showcasing the timeless grandeur of our heritage.
