Caesarea's ancient Roman-era aqueduct, a testament to engineering prowess from 2,000 years ago, is set to undergo a major restoration project. The ambitious NIS 39 million initiative, led by the Carmel Beach Regional Council, the Caesarea Development Company (CDC), and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), aims to preserve this iconic landmark. The agreement, signed recently, allocates a total of NIS 15 million from the Edmond de Rothschild Foundation, the IAA, and the Carmel Beach Regional Council, with an additional NIS 24 million from the CDC for infrastructure upgrades.
The aqueduct, originally constructed around 20 BCE by King Herod, is a marvel of Roman engineering, featuring a network of arches that once carried drinking water from the Carmel region to Caesarea. In 130 CE, Roman Emperor Hadrian recognized its significance, ordering extensive repairs and additions. However, the aqueduct has faced challenges over the centuries, including natural erosion, weathering, and even collapses in some sections.
The restoration project, expected to span nearly three and a half years, will encompass various critical aspects. The IAA will lead planning, conservation, and the constructive stabilization of the aqueduct's 85 arches, ensuring their structural integrity. They will also address the engineering treatment of the upper aqueduct, the water channel itself, and provide safe pedestrian access beneath the arches. The IAA's expertise will be crucial in treating the damage caused by time and the elements, ensuring the aqueduct's preservation for future generations.
Simultaneously, the CDC will focus on enhancing the visitor experience at the Arches Beach and the surrounding areas. This includes financial management, overseeing development and tourism upgrades, and constructing essential infrastructure. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of nature, heritage, and recreation, offering visitors a unique and memorable experience while safeguarding this historical treasure.
