The aqueduct was built to provide water for both the Royal Palace and the planned industrial complex at San Leucio.
The mortar used in the construction contains pozzolana, a volcanic ash that provides high durability and structural strength.
The structure reaches a maximum height of 55.8 meters, which was an engineering feat for the mid-18th century.
Despite being a massive stone structure, it functions with an average slope of just 0.5 millimeters per meter.
Luigi Vanvitelli, the architect, also designed the Royal Palace of Caserta, linking the two projects conceptually.
The aqueduct originally served as a vital part of the palace's garden irrigation system and fountain network.
The bridge section is built entirely of tuff, a local volcanic stone, showcasing regional geological materials.
The Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, also known as the Carolino Aqueduct, is a 38-kilometer-long water system designed by architect Luigi Vanvitelli to supply the Royal Palace of Caserta. The structure features a monumental three-tier section consisting of 44 arches spanning the Maddaloni Valley. Constructed between 1753 and 1762, the bridge section reaches a height of 55.8 meters and stretches 529 meters across the terrain. The design utilizes a combination of Roman engineering principles and 18th-century masonry techniques to maintain a precise, slight gradient. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its integration into the surrounding landscape. The site includes a memorial dedicated to the workers who perished during its construction. The bridge acts as a primary focal point for the complex hydraulic engineering network spanning the mountainous terrain between Monte Taburno and Caserta.
The view from the valley floor looking upward at the central arches during golden hour.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes as the area surrounding the base consists of uneven, rocky trails.
Bring sun protection, as the valley floor offers minimal shade during peak midday hours.
Follow the designated paths to observe the arches from both the valley floor and the surrounding hillsides for a full perspective.
Do not attempt to walk along the top of the aqueduct, as it is closed to public transit and poses a safety risk.
Respect the archaeological site by not climbing on the stone foundations or defacing the historical masonry.
