Athens Revives 2,000-Year-Old Roman Aqueduct to Combat Water Scarcity

The Hadrianic Aqueduct will provide non-potable water for irrigation and green spaces, reducing pressure on Athens' drinking water supply.

The ancient Hadrianic Aqueduct, built during Roman Emperor Hadrian's reign, is being reactivated to address Athens' growing water challenges.
Stretching 23 kilometers and largely underground, the aqueduct will supply non-potable water for gardens, parks, and agriculture, preserving drinking water resources.
The project is supported by the EU's #WaterWiseEU initiative and the Greek Ministry of Culture, focusing on sustainability and efficient water use.
Infrastructure upgrades, including new pipelines, are underway to connect the aqueduct's water to urban and suburban areas like Chalandri, where significant progress has been made.
Officials aim to foster a cultural shift toward water conservation and urban greening to mitigate the effects of climate change and extreme heat in Athens.