An Unparalleled Hydraulic Legacy
Although the ancient Romans did not use their hydraulic infrastructure to generate electricity as we do today, they were pioneers in using it to manage water. These structures played a fundamental role in supplying water to cities and irrigating agricultural land, marking a golden age in civil engineering.
The Majesty of Cuba
Among the most impressive examples of his creations, the dam of La Cuba, located in the province of Zaragoza, stands out. With a height of 34 meters, it is the tallest in the ancient Roman Empire, significantly surpassing the well-known Proserpina dam in Merida, which measures only 21 meters.
A Renewed Visit
After a significant renovation in 2019, La Cuba has become a top tourist attraction, with new viewpoints and walkways offering a unique guided route, including a spectacular suspension bridge. This modernization provides an excellent opportunity to discover Roman engineering and its sophistication.
Location and Unique Features
Located in Almonacid de la Cuba, a small town of only 235 inhabitants in the region of Belchite, the dam is 120 meters long and 27 meters wide. It collects six cubic hectometres of water, which continue to be vital for irrigation. After the Roman abandonment in the third century, it was recovered by the Muslims, witness to its continuing importance.
A Model of Historical Sustainability
The La Cuba Dam is not only a monument of engineering, but also represents a model of agricultural sustainability. Unlike other reservoirs designed to supply cities, La Cuba was designed specifically to feed irrigation ditches, thus reflecting the innovation of the Romans in the management of water resources.
Reflections on the Future
At a time when the world is looking for sustainable solutions for water and energy management, the legacy of Roman infrastructure offers us a valuable perspective. Their ability to integrate technology with nature reminds us that, on the road to the green transition, we should perhaps learn from the past.
