The project was financed largely by the Marquis of Villar del Águila to solve a chronic water shortage for the local convent and city inhabitants.
Construction took place between 1726 and 1735, utilizing traditional viceregal hydraulic engineering techniques.
The arches are constructed of tezontle and cantera stone, which provides both structural integrity and the iconic reddish-pink hue.
It is one of the longest and most intact colonial-era aqueducts remaining in Mexico.
The water flow originally concluded at the Plazuela de la Cruz, where the main fountain was located.
The Acueducto de Querétaro is an 18th-century colonial stone structure consisting of 74 massive masonry arches. Commissioned by the Marquis of Villar del Águila, it spans approximately 1,280 meters in length and reaches a maximum height of 28.5 meters. The aqueduct was engineered to transport fresh water from the springs of La Cañada to the historic center of Santiago de Querétaro. Its construction utilized pink volcanic stone known as cantera, characteristic of the region's architectural style. It remains a functional element of the urban landscape, dividing the modern city from the historic colonial district. In 1996, the structure was included as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site designation for the Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro.
The viewpoint at the intersection of Calzada de los Arcos and the street leading toward the Panteón de los Queretanos Ilustres.
Walk along the adjacent Calzada de los Arcos to view the arches from multiple angles.
Visit during the evening to see the structure illuminated, which highlights the masonry texture.
Combine your visit with a walk into the adjacent Cerro de las Campanas area for broader city views.
Attempting to climb the stone arches; the structure is fragile and protected as a historic monument.
