Nestled on the northern tip of the Italian island of Sardinia lies the ruins of an impressive Roman aqueduct and water system, Acquedotto Romano di Olbia. Built around the 2nd century, the aqueduct collected fresh water from the Cabu Abbas springs for the nearby growing town and countryside.

The aqueduct was first mentioned in historical sources in the 16th century. A century later, it was again mentioned in a mayoral petition to the Spanish viceroy. But it wasn’t until the 19th century that the aqueduct was described in any detail in the writings of Angius.

Today the ruins have remained well-preserved, and visitors can see the intact arches of the ancient aqueduct. 

Located in the Sa Rughitta neighborhood, an original cistern can also be seen. The cistern is primarily made of opus caementici (Roman concrete), which was then covered by opus signinum (small pieces of tiles mixed with mortar) to make it waterproof.

Interestingly, the cistern is not connected to the aqueduct so its water was presumably used by nearby locals, perhaps for agricultural purposes or to supply water to a country residence.