In the north of Moscow, not far from modern residential complexes and well-known landmarks from the Soviet era, lies the Rostokino Aqueduct—an ancient hydraulic structure designed to supply clean water to the residents of Moscow. Let's travel back in time and explore the history of this fascinating monument.
How to Get There by Metro
The aqueduct is located in the park of the same name. You can reach it on foot from the "VDNKh" metro station, which will take about 20 minutes. A similar amount of time is needed to walk to the aqueduct from the "Rostokino" station on the Moscow Central Circle.
On the day of my visit to the park, it wasn't possible to stroll along the aqueduct; online sources mention that access is only available on weekends.
A Bit of History
The establishment of the Rostokino Aqueduct is linked to the increasing population of Moscow and the growing pollution of the city's rivers and canals. The decree for the construction of the structure was issued by Empress Catherine II. However, the empress did not witness the launch of the Mytishchi gravity-fed water supply system, of which the aqueduct was a part; she passed away eight years before the inauguration of the new hydraulic system.
Engineer Friedrich Wilhelm Bauer constructed the Rostokino Aqueduct. At that time, the structure was the longest and tallest stone bridge in Moscow. Its cost became another record due to excessive construction expenses, leading to the aqueduct being dubbed the Millionth Bridge.
The length of the Rostokino Aqueduct is 356 meters. The structure consists of 21 arches, reaching a height of up to 15 meters, with a canal for water flowing at a depth of 1.2 meters. Water from Mytishchi traveled through the aqueduct to Trubnaya Square. Numerous wells were installed along the entire length of the water supply system.
Just 22 years after the water supply system was launched, part of its structures became unusable. Subsequently, the system underwent multiple repairs and reconstructions. Interestingly, to this day, two fountains remain, from which Muscovites once collected water that came into the city through the aqueduct. One of them can be seen in Theatre Square, and the other was moved from Lubyanka to the Alexander Palace.
The Rostokino Aqueduct served its purpose until 1902, after which the structure supported water pipes and a heat pipeline. In modern times, a covered recreational area has been added to the ancient building. In the summer, the park near the aqueduct transforms into a tranquil leisure zone, while in winter, according to online reviews, a large slide appears.
And with this, my narrative about the Rostokino Aqueduct comes to an end. To continue exploring the theme of ancient architectural monuments in beautiful Moscow, I invite you to read my article about the towers of the Moscow Kremlin.
Have a nice trip!
