History of Europe

How much water did the aqueducts bring into Rome?

Ancient Rome's aqueducts were engineering marvels that transported vast quantities of water into the city. The exact amount of water brought in by all of the aqueducts combined is not precisely known, as there is some variation in estimates. However, it is generally agreed that the aqueducts supplied a substantial amount of water, enough to meet the needs of the city's large population. Here is an approximate range of the amount of water brought into Rome by its aqueducts:

- Total combined flow: The total amount of water brought into Rome by all of its aqueducts is estimated to have ranged from around 1,000,000 to 2,500,000 cubic meters (35,314,667 to 88,286,673 cubic feet) per day.

- Per capita supply: Based on the estimated population of ancient Rome, the average daily water supply per person is believed to have been between 300 and 500 liters (79 and 132 gallons). This amount includes water for drinking, bathing, public fountains, and other uses.

- Largest aqueduct: The Aqua Claudia, one of the largest and most important aqueducts in Rome, is estimated to have supplied approximately 182,000 cubic meters (6,420,000 cubic feet) of water per day.

It is worth noting that the aqueducts were not always running at full capacity and the flow could vary depending on the season and other factors. Additionally, the aqueducts were not the only source of water for Rome; there were also wells, springs, and cisterns that contributed to the city's water supply.