--- title: Ancient Constructions that we Still Use Today... description: "Ancient history is littered with dramatic, awe-inspiring structures that no longer exist: the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Great Library of Alexandria, and the Colossus of Rhodes, to name just a few. We often marvel at their ingenuity and wonder how they built such incredible structures without modern tools or technology, but it's hard to get a sense of these almost mythical structures. They are scraps of memories, forgotten heydays—buried ruins—but not all.\n\nSome designs and engineering feats from the Ancient world were so advanced and well-built that we still use them thousands of years later. From aqueducts and tunnels to bridges and walls, if you know where to look, ancient construction isn't quite as long gone as you might think.\n\n## Nazca Civilization Cantayo Aqueduct\n\nThe Nazca civilisation is probably best known for its mysterious geoglyphs—the giant drawings etched into the desert that can only be seen from the sky - which some have even questioned could have been the work of extraterrestrial beings. But the Nazca people left behind another marvel that's just as impressive and far more practical: the Cantayo Aqueducts.\n\nBuilt between 200 and 900 AD in one of the driest places on Earth, these aqueducts are a masterpiece of engineering. The Nazca lived in the arid plains of southern Peru, a region where rainfall is almost nonexistent. They needed a reliable water supply to survive, and the Cantayo Aqueduct system was their solution.\n\nThese aqueducts were constructed underground, which minimised evaporation in the harsh desert heat, and tapped into underground water sources using gravity to channel water to where it was needed. Along the way, the Nazca built a series of spiral-shaped openings called *puquios*. These openings acted like vents, allowing air to enter the system and making accessing and maintaining the underground channels easier.\n\nBut the aqueducts aren't just ancient relics—they're still in use today. Local communities in the Nazca region rely on this ancient system to irrigate their crops and access clean water. It is an engineering marvel started around 1800 years ago by a civilization that disappeared over 1000 years ago, but it is so effective and durable that it's still serving people in the 21st century.\n\nModern engineers have taken note. The principles behind the Cantayo Aqueduct are being studied and applied in water management systems around the world. In regions where water is scarce, these techniques could make a huge difference.\n\nThe next time you think of ancient engineering, don't just picture grand temples or towering statues. Sometimes, the most impressive feats are the ones that quietly sustain life, long after their creators are gone.\n\n## Pont du Gard Aqueduct\n\nThe Romans were the builders supreme of their age, or, to borrow a phrase from our next location, the *Creme de la Creme*. Built in the 1st century AD, the Pont du Gard is one of the most striking examples of Roman engineering brilliance.\n\nLocated in southern France, the Pont du Gard was designed to transport water over 48 km (30 miles) to the city of Nemausus, known today as Nîmes. The aqueduct carried an estimated 150 million litres (40 million gallons) of water each day, supplying homes, baths, fountains, and even public latrines. But what really makes the Pont du Gard stand out is its exquisite design and construction.\n\nThis massive structure spans the Gardon River and rises over 48 metres (160 feet), making it one of the tallest aqueduct bridges the Romans ever built. The massive stones, some weighing over six tons, were precisely cut and fit together so perfectly that the bridge has withstood floods, erosion, and centuries of use. And to add the cherry on top, it was constructed entirely without mortar.\n\nEven more fascinating is how the Romans used the natural landscape to their advantage. The bridge's three-tiered design provided stability and allowed the aqueduct to maintain the perfect gradient to keep water flowing—just 2.5 cm (1 inch) of slope for every 106 metres (350 feet.) That's precision engineering, and it's no wonder the structure has survived for nearly 2,000 years.\n\nWhile the Pont du Gard no longer carries water, it's still in use in other ways. It's a pedestrian bridge and a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its beauty and craftsmanship. More importantly, it serves as a blueprint for modern aqueducts and bridges. Engineers continue to study Roman aqueduct systems to improve modern water infrastructure, especially in areas with challenging terrain.\n\nWhile the Romans may have built grander buildings that still remain, the Coliseum and the Pantheon, to name just two, the Pont du Gard reminds us that ancient construction wasn't just about grandeur—it was about practicality and sustainability. The Romans built to last, and this astonishing aqueduct is still standing firm.\n\n## The Eupalinos Tunnel\n\nThe Eupalinos Tunnel is one of the most fascinating engineering feats of the ancient world—and one of its least talked about. Built in the 6th century BC on the Greek island of Samos, this tunnel wasn't just an impressive project for its time; it's a masterpiece that still influences modern construction methods today.\n\nCommissioned by the tyrant Polycrates, the tunnel was designed to solve a critical problem: providing a secure and reliable water supply to the city of Pythagoreion. At the time, the city faced the constant threat of attack, and an exposed water source was a vulnerability. To address this, the Eupalinos Tunnel was built underground to safely transport water from a spring on the other side of Mount Kastro.\n\nThis was already a monumentally ambitious plan, but how it was done was equally revolutionary. Eupalinos of Megara, the engineer behind the project, used a groundbreaking technique for its time. Instead of starting at one end and digging all the way through, his team dug from both ends of the mountain simultaneously and met in the middle with remarkable precision—albeit with a last-minute alteration to line up the two. Over 2500 years later, the Channel Tunnel between Britain and France was dug using the same method.\n\nThis feat required advanced surveying techniques and an understanding of geometry far ahead of its time. The tunnel stretches over 1,000 meters (about 3,400 feet) and is more than 2.5 metres (8 feet) tall in places, allowing workers to move freely inside. Its design includes a channel at the base for water to flow, which was carefully angled to maintain a steady supply.\n\nWhile the Eupalinos Tunnel is no longer a functioning water source—wars have long fizzled out in this region—parts of it are still accessible and can be visited. Now, some of you watching might not be overly enthused by the idea of a simple tunnel, but the Eupalinos Tunnel is often compared to the Seven Wonders of the World. It's a kilometre long and was carved out using nothing more than chisels and hammers. The dual-entry method used by Eupalinos is a precursor to modern tunnelling techniques, including those used in subway construction and underground pipelines.\n\nBut the most astonishing part is that it was built over 2600 years ago. To put that into context, the Roman Empire was still 600 years away. Walking through the Eupalinos Tunnel today, you're not just exploring an ancient engineering marvel—you're stepping into a space where math, science, and ingenuity came together in a way that still amazes us.\n\n## The Great Wall of China\n\nNow to what was arguably the world's longest-running engineering project. The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic structures in the world, stretching thousands of miles across rugged landscapes. But it's not just a historical monument—an ancient engineering marvel that continues to influence construction and infrastructure today.\n\nWork began on the Great Wall in the 7th Century BC, around 2700 years ago, and continued for almost 2000 years after that. Its primary purpose was to protect China from invasions by nomadic tribes, but the wall was much more than a defensive barrier. It served as a transportation route, a communication system, and a symbol of unity and strength.\n\nWhat makes the Great Wall so remarkable is the engineering behind it. The wall was constructed using local materials that varied depending on the region. Builders used stone in the mountains while they compacted earth and sand in the plains. This adaptability ensured the wall's resilience in different terrains.\n\nThe wall's design also included strategically placed towers, barracks, and watchtowers to allow for surveillance and quick communication. Smoke signals from these towers could relay messages across vast distances in minutes, an ancient equivalent of a rapid communication network.\n\nToday, parts of the Great Wall still serve practical purposes. In some areas, it helps with erosion control, preventing soil from washing away in heavy rains. Its long, continuous barrier principles have inspired modern construction projects like flood defences and border walls.\n\nThe Great Wall of China is a powerhouse piece of engineering, stretching for more than 21,196 kilometres (13,000 miles) from Shanhaiguan in Hebei province to Jiayuguan in Gansu province in the west. No, you can't see it from space, regardless of what people tell you. However, engineers and architects still study the techniques used in its construction to understand better how ancient builders achieved such durability and functionality.\n\n## The Tower of Hercules\n\nThe Tower of Hercules is an ancient Roman lighthouse that has been guiding sailors for nearly 2,000 years. Located in Galicia, Spain, this incredible structure isn't just a historical landmark—it's the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world and yet another feather in the bow of the brilliance of Roman engineering.\n\nBuilt in the 2nd century AD, the Tower of Hercules was designed to safely guide ships into the Brigantium port, now known as A Coruña. Standing nearly 54 metres (180 feet) tall, it was initially constructed with a spiral ramp that allowed workers to carry fuel to the top to keep the beacon burning. The tower's robust stone construction and strategic location made it a vital navigational tool in the ancient world.\n\nWhat's even more impressive is that the tower has been in continuous use since its construction. While it has undergone renovations over the centuries—most notably in the 18th century when the exterior was updated—the original Roman core remains intact. This combination of ancient and modern engineering has allowed the tower to withstand the elements, from fierce Atlantic storms to the test of time itself.\n\nThe principles behind the Tower of Hercules are still used in modern lighthouse design. Its height, visibility, and strategic placement near hazardous waters are all features that remain essential for maritime navigation today. Even the idea of using a single, prominent structure to guide ships has carried forward, with lighthouses continuing to play a critical role in coastal safety despite advances in GPS technology.\n\nWhen visiting the Tower of Hercules today, you can climb to the top and take in the same sweeping views that ancient sailors might have seen as they navigated their way to safety. It's a powerful reminder that some ancient ideas were so good that we're still using them thousands of years later.\n\n## The Cloaca Maxima\n\nThe Cloaca Maxima, built over 2,500 years ago in ancient Rome, is one of the world's oldest known sewer systems, and parts of it are still in use today. This engineering marvel was a cornerstone of Roman urban planning and laid the foundation for modern sanitation systems worldwide.\n\nOriginally constructed around 600 BC, the Cloaca Maxima was designed to drain water and waste from Rome into the Tiber River. What began as an open canal to prevent flooding was later enclosed with stone and brick, evolving into a sophisticated underground sewer. The Romans expanded and maintained the system for centuries, incorporating their characteristic arches and durable concrete to ensure its longevity.\n\nThe Cloaca Maxima wasn't just a sewer—it was part of a much more extensive network of infrastructure that helped make Rome a thriving metropolis. It allowed the city to grow by managing waste and improving hygiene, reducing disease spread. Public baths, fountains, and even wealthy households were connected to the system, showcasing how advanced Roman engineering was.\n\nThe main tunnel measures approximately 4 meters (13 feet) wide and 3 meters (10 feet) high in many sections. These dimensions allowed workers to enter and maintain it quickly, a rare feature for ancient sewer systems. Initially, the Cloaca Maxima stretched about 800 meters (2,600 feet) from the Roman Forum to the Tiber River, but the network expanded as Rome grew, incorporating smaller tributary drains. It's buried at varying depths, but in some areas, it lies as deep as 10 meters (33 feet) beneath modern Rome - a depth that ensured gravity-driven drainage to the Tiber. And what was built down there was grandly impressive. The tunnel walls, made from large stone blocks or concrete, are often 1 meter (3 feet) thick, designed to withstand the pressure of water, waste, and centuries of wear.\n\nWhat's remarkable is that sections of the Cloaca Maxima are still operational. Modern Rome still uses parts of this ancient sewer to manage stormwater runoff. While modern sewer systems have expanded and improved upon Roman designs, the basic principles—underground channels, gravity-driven flow, and regular maintenance—remain the same.\n\nThe legacy of the Cloaca Maxima extends far beyond its functional use. It inspired the development of sanitation systems in cities across the Roman Empire, many of which influenced European urban planning during the Renaissance and beyond. Even today, engineers look to ancient Roman systems for durability, efficiency, and adaptability lessons.\n\nStanding on the streets of Rome, it's easy to focus on the grand temples and monumental arches that tower above you, but one of the city's most enduring and important engineering feats lies directly below you.\n\n## The Derinkuyu Underground City\n\nBuilt thousands of years ago, Derinkuyu is a sprawling subterranean city that could house up to 20,000 people, along with their livestock, food stores, and even places of worship.\n\nLocated in the Cappadocia region, Derinkuyu is believed to have been initially constructed by the Phrygians around the 8th century BC and expanded during Byzantine times. It was designed as a refuge from invaders, with entire communities retreating underground during times of danger. Derinkuyu is the largest excavated underground city in the world, stretching as deep as 60 meters (200 feet) and containing multiple levels—about 18 stories underground.\n\nWhat sets Derinkuyu apart is its sophisticated design. The city has over 50 ventilation shafts and thousands of smaller air ducts to provide fresh air throughout its extensive network, keeping it habitable even at its deepest levels, while water wells and waste disposal systems were built to support large populations for extended periods. The architects even included defensive features, like rolling stone doors - weighing up to 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds) - that could seal off tunnels in case of attack. The planning and execution required to build something this complex entirely by hand is mind-boggling.\n\nDerinkuyu included living quarters, kitchens, storage rooms, wineries, chapels, stables, schools, and even a missionary school with classrooms. It was a fully functional underground world. Archaeological evidence suggests the city had wineries, making wine likely for ceremonial, medicinal, and daily purposes.\n\nToday, parts of Derinkuyu are open to the public as a tourist attraction, but locals still use sections of the underground city for practical purposes, like storing food and wine. Its design principles also resonate in modern architecture. Underground urban planning, such as subterranean transportation networks, data centres, and even modern survival bunkers, often draw on the concepts seen in Derinkuyu.\n\nWhat's fascinating is how adaptable and forward-thinking this city was. In a region prone to invasions and harsh weather, the builders created a safe, sustainable environment that could support entire communities. It's an example of how necessity drove innovation, resulting in a relevant design. And this is just part of it. Derinkuyu is part of a vast network of underground cities in the Cappadocia region, with some tunnels stretching over 10 kilometres (6 miles) to connect it with neighbouring sites like Kaymakli.\n\nBut this subterranean world remains deeply mysterious. Despite decades of research, much of Derinkuyu remains unexplored. Archaeologists believe there could be even deeper and more extensive layers yet to be uncovered.\n\n## Ancient Construction\n\nAncient engineering continues to shape our world in profound and practical ways. These structures and systems, built thousands of years ago, weren't just ahead of their time—they laid the groundwork for innovations we still rely on today. From aqueducts that bring life to arid lands to earthquake-resistant designs that inspire modern skyscrapers, ancient ingenuity offers durability, adaptability, and sustainability lessons.\n\nEven more remarkable is how some of these ancient methods surpass their modern counterparts in efficiency and longevity. Roman concrete, for example, has endured for centuries, resisting the elements in ways that modern concrete often cannot. The underground aqueducts of the Nazca civilisation manage water so effectively that they still function in one of the world's driest regions.\n\nEarly civilisations built with purpose, using limited tools and materials to solve problems in ways that continue to amaze us. Far from being relics of the past, ancient engineering remains a source of inspiration, showing that the most brilliant solutions often transcend time. Whether through their innovation or sheer endurance, these ancient marvels connect us to a legacy of human ingenuity that continues to influence how we live and build today.\n\n## Key Takeaways\n\n- Ancient aqueducts, like the Nazca Cantayo and Pont du Gard, are still used today for water management.\n- The Eupalinos Tunnel's dual-entry construction method is a precursor to modern tunnelling techniques.\n- The Great Wall of China's engineering principles influence modern construction projects like flood defenses.\n- The Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman lighthouse, remains functional and inspires modern lighthouse design.\n- Derinkuyu's underground city design principles are applied in modern subterranean urban planning and survival bunkers.\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions\n\n### What are some ancient constructions that are still in use today?\n\nSome ancient constructions that are still in use today include the Nazca Civilization Cantayo Aqueduct, the Pont du Gard Aqueduct, the Eupalinos Tunnel, the Great Wall of China, the Tower of Hercules, the Cloaca Maxima, and the Derinkuyu Underground City.\n\n### What is the Cantayo Aqueduct and where is it located?\n\nThe Cantayo Aqueduct is an underground water system built by the Nazca civilization between 200 and 900 AD in one of the driest places on Earth, the arid plains of southern Peru.\n\n### How did the Cantayo Aqueduct work?\n\nThe Cantayo Aqueduct was constructed underground to minimize evaporation and tapped into underground water sources using gravity to channel water. It included spiral-shaped openings called puquios that acted as vents to allow air to enter the system.\n\n### What is the Pont du Gard and where is it located?\n\nThe Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct located in southern France, built in the 1st century AD to transport water to the city of Nemausus, known today as Nîmes.\n\n### What makes the Pont du Gard stand out?\n\nThe Pont du Gard stands out for its exquisite design and construction, spanning the Gardon River and rising over 48 meters (160 feet). It was built entirely without mortar and used the natural landscape to maintain a perfect gradient for water flow.\n\n### What is the Eupalinos Tunnel and where is it located?\n\nThe Eupalinos Tunnel is an ancient water tunnel built in the 6th century BC on the Greek island of Samos. It was designed to provide a secure and reliable water supply to the city of Pythagoreion.\n\n### How was the Eupalinos Tunnel constructed?\n\nThe Eupalinos Tunnel was constructed by digging from both ends of the mountain simultaneously and meeting in the middle. This method required advanced surveying techniques and an understanding of geometry far ahead of its time.\n\n### What is the Great Wall of China and when was it built?\n\nThe Great Wall of China is an iconic structure that stretches thousands of miles across rugged landscapes. Work began on the Great Wall in the 7th Century BC, around 2700 years ago, and continued for almost 2000 years after that.\n\n### What was the primary purpose of the Great Wall of China?\n\nThe primary purpose of the Great Wall of China was to protect China from invasions by nomadic tribes. It also served as a transportation route, a communication system, and a symbol of unity and strength.\n\n### What is the Cloaca Maxima and where is it located?\n\nThe Cloaca Maxima is one of the world’s oldest known sewer systems, built over 2,500 years ago in ancient Rome. It was designed to drain water and waste from Rome into the Tiber River.\n\n## Sources\n\n- [Original Side Projects video: Ancient Constructions that we Still Use Today...](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYLv6zJoshk)\n\n## Related Coverage" url: https://sideprojects.pub/article/ancient-constructions-we-still-use-today.md canonical: https://sideprojects.pub/article/ancient-constructions-we-still-use-today datePublished: 2026-06-25 dateModified: 2026-06-25 author: - name: Simon Whistler url: https://sideprojects.pub/author/simon-whistler publisher: Side Projects image: "https://media.sideprojects.pub/cdn-cgi/image/width=1600,height=900,fit=cover,quality=80,format=auto/articles/CYLv6zJoshk/hero.jpg" type: NewsArticle contentHash: a8c8ba6bf460a3e14282ff61d57b32e6ed996b3a4b9a02c22959cb9d9fc11da0 tokens: 5434 summaryUrl: https://sideprojects.pub/article/ancient-constructions-we-still-use-today.md.summary.md --- Ancient history is littered with dramatic, awe-inspiring structures that no longer exist: the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Great Library of Alexandria, and the Colossus of Rhodes, to name just a few. We often marvel at their ingenuity and wonder how they built such incredible structures without modern tools or technology, but it's hard to get a sense of these almost mythical structures. They are scraps of memories, forgotten heydays—buried ruins—but not all. Some designs and engineering feats from the Ancient world were so advanced and well-built that we still use them thousands of years later. From aqueducts and tunnels to bridges and walls, if you know where to look, ancient construction isn't quite as long gone as you might think. ## Nazca Civilization Cantayo Aqueduct The Nazca civilisation is probably best known for its mysterious geoglyphs—the giant drawings etched into the desert that can only be seen from the sky - which some have even questioned could have been the work of extraterrestrial beings. But the Nazca people left behind another marvel that's just as impressive and far more practical: the Cantayo Aqueducts. Built between 200 and 900 AD in one of the driest places on Earth, these aqueducts are a masterpiece of engineering. The Nazca lived in the arid plains of southern Peru, a region where rainfall is almost nonexistent. They needed a reliable water supply to survive, and the Cantayo Aqueduct system was their solution. These aqueducts were constructed underground, which minimised evaporation in the harsh desert heat, and tapped into underground water sources using gravity to channel water to where it was needed. Along the way, the Nazca built a series of spiral-shaped openings called *puquios*. These openings acted like vents, allowing air to enter the system and making accessing and maintaining the underground channels easier. But the aqueducts aren't just ancient relics—they're still in use today. Local communities in the Nazca region rely on this ancient system to irrigate their crops and access clean water. It is an engineering marvel started around 1800 years ago by a civilization that disappeared over 1000 years ago, but it is so effective and durable that it's still serving people in the 21st century. Modern engineers have taken note. The principles behind the Cantayo Aqueduct are being studied and applied in water management systems around the world. In regions where water is scarce, these techniques could make a huge difference. The next time you think of ancient engineering, don't just picture grand temples or towering statues. Sometimes, the most impressive feats are the ones that quietly sustain life, long after their creators are gone. ## Pont du Gard Aqueduct The Romans were the builders supreme of their age, or, to borrow a phrase from our next location, the *Creme de la Creme*. Built in the 1st century AD, the Pont du Gard is one of the most striking examples of Roman engineering brilliance. Located in southern France, the Pont du Gard was designed to transport water over 48 km (30 miles) to the city of Nemausus, known today as Nîmes. The aqueduct carried an estimated 150 million litres (40 million gallons) of water each day, supplying homes, baths, fountains, and even public latrines. But what really makes the Pont du Gard stand out is its exquisite design and construction. This massive structure spans the Gardon River and rises over 48 metres (160 feet), making it one of the tallest aqueduct bridges the Romans ever built. The massive stones, some weighing over six tons, were precisely cut and fit together so perfectly that the bridge has withstood floods, erosion, and centuries of use. And to add the cherry on top, it was constructed entirely without mortar. Even more fascinating is how the Romans used the natural landscape to their advantage. The bridge's three-tiered design provided stability and allowed the aqueduct to maintain the perfect gradient to keep water flowing—just 2.5 cm (1 inch) of slope for every 106 metres (350 feet.) That's precision engineering, and it's no wonder the structure has survived for nearly 2,000 years. While the Pont du Gard no longer carries water, it's still in use in other ways. It's a pedestrian bridge and a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its beauty and craftsmanship. More importantly, it serves as a blueprint for modern aqueducts and bridges. Engineers continue to study Roman aqueduct systems to improve modern water infrastructure, especially in areas with challenging terrain. While the Romans may have built grander buildings that still remain, the Coliseum and the Pantheon, to name just two, the Pont du Gard reminds us that ancient construction wasn't just about grandeur—it was about practicality and sustainability. The Romans built to last, and this astonishing aqueduct is still standing firm. ## The Eupalinos Tunnel The Eupalinos Tunnel is one of the most fascinating engineering feats of the ancient world—and one of its least talked about. Built in the 6th century BC on the Greek island of Samos, this tunnel wasn't just an impressive project for its time; it's a masterpiece that still influences modern construction methods today. Commissioned by the tyrant Polycrates, the tunnel was designed to solve a critical problem: providing a secure and reliable water supply to the city of Pythagoreion. At the time, the city faced the constant threat of attack, and an exposed water source was a vulnerability. To address this, the Eupalinos Tunnel was built underground to safely transport water from a spring on the other side of Mount Kastro. This was already a monumentally ambitious plan, but how it was done was equally revolutionary. Eupalinos of Megara, the engineer behind the project, used a groundbreaking technique for its time. Instead of starting at one end and digging all the way through, his team dug from both ends of the mountain simultaneously and met in the middle with remarkable precision—albeit with a last-minute alteration to line up the two. Over 2500 years later, the Channel Tunnel between Britain and France was dug using the same method. This feat required advanced surveying techniques and an understanding of geometry far ahead of its time. The tunnel stretches over 1,000 meters (about 3,400 feet) and is more than 2.5 metres (8 feet) tall in places, allowing workers to move freely inside. Its design includes a channel at the base for water to flow, which was carefully angled to maintain a steady supply. While the Eupalinos Tunnel is no longer a functioning water source—wars have long fizzled out in this region—parts of it are still accessible and can be visited. Now, some of you watching might not be overly enthused by the idea of a simple tunnel, but the Eupalinos Tunnel is often compared to the Seven Wonders of the World. It's a kilometre long and was carved out using nothing more than chisels and hammers. The dual-entry method used by Eupalinos is a precursor to modern tunnelling techniques, including those used in subway construction and underground pipelines. But the most astonishing part is that it was built over 2600 years ago. To put that into context, the Roman Empire was still 600 years away. Walking through the Eupalinos Tunnel today, you're not just exploring an ancient engineering marvel—you're stepping into a space where math, science, and ingenuity came together in a way that still amazes us. ## The Great Wall of China Now to what was arguably the world's longest-running engineering project. The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic structures in the world, stretching thousands of miles across rugged landscapes. But it's not just a historical monument—an ancient engineering marvel that continues to influence construction and infrastructure today. Work began on the Great Wall in the 7th Century BC, around 2700 years ago, and continued for almost 2000 years after that. Its primary purpose was to protect China from invasions by nomadic tribes, but the wall was much more than a defensive barrier. It served as a transportation route, a communication system, and a symbol of unity and strength. What makes the Great Wall so remarkable is the engineering behind it. The wall was constructed using local materials that varied depending on the region. Builders used stone in the mountains while they compacted earth and sand in the plains. This adaptability ensured the wall's resilience in different terrains. The wall's design also included strategically placed towers, barracks, and watchtowers to allow for surveillance and quick communication. Smoke signals from these towers could relay messages across vast distances in minutes, an ancient equivalent of a rapid communication network. Today, parts of the Great Wall still serve practical purposes. In some areas, it helps with erosion control, preventing soil from washing away in heavy rains. Its long, continuous barrier principles have inspired modern construction projects like flood defences and border walls. The Great Wall of China is a powerhouse piece of engineering, stretching for more than 21,196 kilometres (13,000 miles) from Shanhaiguan in Hebei province to Jiayuguan in Gansu province in the west. No, you can't see it from space, regardless of what people tell you. However, engineers and architects still study the techniques used in its construction to understand better how ancient builders achieved such durability and functionality. ## The Tower of Hercules The Tower of Hercules is an ancient Roman lighthouse that has been guiding sailors for nearly 2,000 years. Located in Galicia, Spain, this incredible structure isn't just a historical landmark—it's the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world and yet another feather in the bow of the brilliance of Roman engineering. Built in the 2nd century AD, the Tower of Hercules was designed to safely guide ships into the Brigantium port, now known as A Coruña. Standing nearly 54 metres (180 feet) tall, it was initially constructed with a spiral ramp that allowed workers to carry fuel to the top to keep the beacon burning. The tower's robust stone construction and strategic location made it a vital navigational tool in the ancient world. What's even more impressive is that the tower has been in continuous use since its construction. While it has undergone renovations over the centuries—most notably in the 18th century when the exterior was updated—the original Roman core remains intact. This combination of ancient and modern engineering has allowed the tower to withstand the elements, from fierce Atlantic storms to the test of time itself. The principles behind the Tower of Hercules are still used in modern lighthouse design. Its height, visibility, and strategic placement near hazardous waters are all features that remain essential for maritime navigation today. Even the idea of using a single, prominent structure to guide ships has carried forward, with lighthouses continuing to play a critical role in coastal safety despite advances in GPS technology. When visiting the Tower of Hercules today, you can climb to the top and take in the same sweeping views that ancient sailors might have seen as they navigated their way to safety. It's a powerful reminder that some ancient ideas were so good that we're still using them thousands of years later. ## The Cloaca Maxima The Cloaca Maxima, built over 2,500 years ago in ancient Rome, is one of the world's oldest known sewer systems, and parts of it are still in use today. This engineering marvel was a cornerstone of Roman urban planning and laid the foundation for modern sanitation systems worldwide. Originally constructed around 600 BC, the Cloaca Maxima was designed to drain water and waste from Rome into the Tiber River. What began as an open canal to prevent flooding was later enclosed with stone and brick, evolving into a sophisticated underground sewer. The Romans expanded and maintained the system for centuries, incorporating their characteristic arches and durable concrete to ensure its longevity. The Cloaca Maxima wasn't just a sewer—it was part of a much more extensive network of infrastructure that helped make Rome a thriving metropolis. It allowed the city to grow by managing waste and improving hygiene, reducing disease spread. Public baths, fountains, and even wealthy households were connected to the system, showcasing how advanced Roman engineering was. The main tunnel measures approximately 4 meters (13 feet) wide and 3 meters (10 feet) high in many sections. These dimensions allowed workers to enter and maintain it quickly, a rare feature for ancient sewer systems. Initially, the Cloaca Maxima stretched about 800 meters (2,600 feet) from the Roman Forum to the Tiber River, but the network expanded as Rome grew, incorporating smaller tributary drains. It's buried at varying depths, but in some areas, it lies as deep as 10 meters (33 feet) beneath modern Rome - a depth that ensured gravity-driven drainage to the Tiber. And what was built down there was grandly impressive. The tunnel walls, made from large stone blocks or concrete, are often 1 meter (3 feet) thick, designed to withstand the pressure of water, waste, and centuries of wear. What's remarkable is that sections of the Cloaca Maxima are still operational. Modern Rome still uses parts of this ancient sewer to manage stormwater runoff. While modern sewer systems have expanded and improved upon Roman designs, the basic principles—underground channels, gravity-driven flow, and regular maintenance—remain the same. The legacy of the Cloaca Maxima extends far beyond its functional use. It inspired the development of sanitation systems in cities across the Roman Empire, many of which influenced European urban planning during the Renaissance and beyond. Even today, engineers look to ancient Roman systems for durability, efficiency, and adaptability lessons. Standing on the streets of Rome, it's easy to focus on the grand temples and monumental arches that tower above you, but one of the city's most enduring and important engineering feats lies directly below you. ## The Derinkuyu Underground City Built thousands of years ago, Derinkuyu is a sprawling subterranean city that could house up to 20,000 people, along with their livestock, food stores, and even places of worship. Located in the Cappadocia region, Derinkuyu is believed to have been initially constructed by the Phrygians around the 8th century BC and expanded during Byzantine times. It was designed as a refuge from invaders, with entire communities retreating underground during times of danger. Derinkuyu is the largest excavated underground city in the world, stretching as deep as 60 meters (200 feet) and containing multiple levels—about 18 stories underground. What sets Derinkuyu apart is its sophisticated design. The city has over 50 ventilation shafts and thousands of smaller air ducts to provide fresh air throughout its extensive network, keeping it habitable even at its deepest levels, while water wells and waste disposal systems were built to support large populations for extended periods. The architects even included defensive features, like rolling stone doors - weighing up to 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds) - that could seal off tunnels in case of attack. The planning and execution required to build something this complex entirely by hand is mind-boggling. Derinkuyu included living quarters, kitchens, storage rooms, wineries, chapels, stables, schools, and even a missionary school with classrooms. It was a fully functional underground world. Archaeological evidence suggests the city had wineries, making wine likely for ceremonial, medicinal, and daily purposes. Today, parts of Derinkuyu are open to the public as a tourist attraction, but locals still use sections of the underground city for practical purposes, like storing food and wine. Its design principles also resonate in modern architecture. Underground urban planning, such as subterranean transportation networks, data centres, and even modern survival bunkers, often draw on the concepts seen in Derinkuyu. What's fascinating is how adaptable and forward-thinking this city was. In a region prone to invasions and harsh weather, the builders created a safe, sustainable environment that could support entire communities. It's an example of how necessity drove innovation, resulting in a relevant design. And this is just part of it. Derinkuyu is part of a vast network of underground cities in the Cappadocia region, with some tunnels stretching over 10 kilometres (6 miles) to connect it with neighbouring sites like Kaymakli. But this subterranean world remains deeply mysterious. Despite decades of research, much of Derinkuyu remains unexplored. Archaeologists believe there could be even deeper and more extensive layers yet to be uncovered. ## Ancient Construction Ancient engineering continues to shape our world in profound and practical ways. These structures and systems, built thousands of years ago, weren't just ahead of their time—they laid the groundwork for innovations we still rely on today. From aqueducts that bring life to arid lands to earthquake-resistant designs that inspire modern skyscrapers, ancient ingenuity offers durability, adaptability, and sustainability lessons. Even more remarkable is how some of these ancient methods surpass their modern counterparts in efficiency and longevity. Roman concrete, for example, has endured for centuries, resisting the elements in ways that modern concrete often cannot. The underground aqueducts of the Nazca civilisation manage water so effectively that they still function in one of the world's driest regions. Early civilisations built with purpose, using limited tools and materials to solve problems in ways that continue to amaze us. Far from being relics of the past, ancient engineering remains a source of inspiration, showing that the most brilliant solutions often transcend time. Whether through their innovation or sheer endurance, these ancient marvels connect us to a legacy of human ingenuity that continues to influence how we live and build today. ## Key Takeaways - Ancient aqueducts, like the Nazca Cantayo and Pont du Gard, are still used today for water management. - The Eupalinos Tunnel's dual-entry construction method is a precursor to modern tunnelling techniques. - The Great Wall of China's engineering principles influence modern construction projects like flood defenses. - The Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman lighthouse, remains functional and inspires modern lighthouse design. - Derinkuyu's underground city design principles are applied in modern subterranean urban planning and survival bunkers. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are some ancient constructions that are still in use today? Some ancient constructions that are still in use today include the Nazca Civilization Cantayo Aqueduct, the Pont du Gard Aqueduct, the Eupalinos Tunnel, the Great Wall of China, the Tower of Hercules, the Cloaca Maxima, and the Derinkuyu Underground City. ### What is the Cantayo Aqueduct and where is it located? The Cantayo Aqueduct is an underground water system built by the Nazca civilization between 200 and 900 AD in one of the driest places on Earth, the arid plains of southern Peru. ### How did the Cantayo Aqueduct work? The Cantayo Aqueduct was constructed underground to minimize evaporation and tapped into underground water sources using gravity to channel water. It included spiral-shaped openings called puquios that acted as vents to allow air to enter the system. ### What is the Pont du Gard and where is it located? The Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct located in southern France, built in the 1st century AD to transport water to the city of Nemausus, known today as Nîmes. ### What makes the Pont du Gard stand out? The Pont du Gard stands out for its exquisite design and construction, spanning the Gardon River and rising over 48 meters (160 feet). It was built entirely without mortar and used the natural landscape to maintain a perfect gradient for water flow. ### What is the Eupalinos Tunnel and where is it located? The Eupalinos Tunnel is an ancient water tunnel built in the 6th century BC on the Greek island of Samos. It was designed to provide a secure and reliable water supply to the city of Pythagoreion. ### How was the Eupalinos Tunnel constructed? The Eupalinos Tunnel was constructed by digging from both ends of the mountain simultaneously and meeting in the middle. This method required advanced surveying techniques and an understanding of geometry far ahead of its time. ### What is the Great Wall of China and when was it built? The Great Wall of China is an iconic structure that stretches thousands of miles across rugged landscapes. Work began on the Great Wall in the 7th Century BC, around 2700 years ago, and continued for almost 2000 years after that. ### What was the primary purpose of the Great Wall of China? The primary purpose of the Great Wall of China was to protect China from invasions by nomadic tribes. It also served as a transportation route, a communication system, and a symbol of unity and strength. ### What is the Cloaca Maxima and where is it located? The Cloaca Maxima is one of the world’s oldest known sewer systems, built over 2,500 years ago in ancient Rome. It was designed to drain water and waste from Rome into the Tiber River. ## Sources - [Original Side Projects video: Ancient Constructions that we Still Use Today...](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYLv6zJoshk) ## Related Coverage