Arcos da Lapa – Carioca Aqueduct

Introducing the famous Arcos de Lapa. It has earned its place among Rio’s most iconic must-see sights, alongside Corcovado, Copacabana, and the Selarón Steps. This aqueduct was built between 1725 and 1744, to supply the city with water all the way from the Carioca River. It is the greatest architectural work undertaken during the colonial period in Brazil, constructed mostly by African slaves. Efforts to bring fresh water to Rio de Janeiro can be traced back to the 1600s. They first tried to install iron pipes, but this proved impractical due to their susceptibility to harsh weather conditions and corrosion. So, the Count of Bobadela, governor at the time, decided to go big; he ordered the construction of a gigantic aqueduct made of solid, durable materials, modelled on the one being built in Lisbon! They thus mixed rocks, lime, and even whale fat to make super strong concrete! This was a fairly common formula at the time, and you’ll see many forts, churches and other structures built in this bright white color! This structure here has a total of 42 double arches, measuring some 18 metres high and 270 metres long. By the late 1800s, the city had found new ways to get its water supply, and in 1896, the aqueduct began to be used as a viaduct for the city’s new streetcars, still in use today. Today, the Arcos de Lapa is a cherished landmark in Rio’s historic center; it’s a popular go-to spot at the heart of this bohemian district, full of bars and restaurants.