Discovery of the Easternmost Roman Aqueduct in Armenia

Archaeologists from the University of Münster and the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia have made a remarkable discovery during their excavation work on the Hellenistic royal city of Artashat-Artaxata in ancient Armenia. The find? The remains of a Roman arched aqueduct—the easternmost in the Roman Empire.

The Aqueduct’s Origins

The monumental foundations of this incomplete aqueduct bridge were erected by Roman troops between AD 114 and AD 117 at Artashat-Artaxata. During this period, the Roman Empire was under the rule of Emperor Trajan, known for his philanthropic governance and extensive public building programs. Trajan’s vision extended to Armenia, where Artaxata was destined to become the capital of a Roman province.

An Unfinished Legacy

Unfortunately, Trajan’s death in AD 117 halted the aqueduct’s completion. His successor, Hadrian, relinquished control of the province of Armenia, leaving the aqueduct unfinished. Despite its incomplete state, the aqueduct stands as a testament to Roman engineering prowess.

Interdisciplinary Exploration

The excavation team employed an interdisciplinary approach, combining archaeology, geophysics, geochemistry, and archaeoinformatics. Geomagnetic surveys around the Hellenistic metropolis of Artaxata revealed anomalies, including a prominent dotted line. Further investigations, including sondages and three-dimensional analysis, uncovered additional evidence of unfinished or destroyed pillars.

Visualizing the Past

Satellite imagery and infrared drone photos helped visualize the aqueduct’s course. Using computer-assisted path analysis, the team reconstructed the planned route between water sources and its intended destination. Scientific analysis of the lime mortar confirmed its typical Roman composition.

Collaborative Research

Since 2018, a collaborative effort led by German and Armenian scientists—Achim Lichtenberger (Münster University), Mkrtich Zardaryan (Armenian Academy of Sciences), and Torben Schreiber (Münster University)—has focused on the Hellenistic city of Artaxata on Armenia’s Ararat Plain.

Artatsolum

University of Münster

Cover Photo: The excavation section shows a pillar of the unfinished aqueduct – Photo: Artaxata project

Source: arkeonews.net