Water and energy in pre-industrial societies. Case Study: The Uxama Aqueduct

The pre-industrial societies developed intelligent and effective methods for utilizing their water resources. One of the leading civilizations in this field was the Roman Empire, which constructed impressive aqueducts that not only solved the water supply problems of the cities but also laid the foundations for future technological advancements in hydrology and engineering. In more detail, the first chapter presents the elements that will be analyzed, the study path that will be followed, as well as the goals and points the study will delve into. In the second chapter, the methods of water collection and storage, such as wells and cisterns, are described, along with the technologies developed for the exploitation of natural resources. The role of human and animal labor in agricultural activities is examined, emphasizing the methods of soil processing, sowing and planting, as well as the harvest of crops. Additionally, the chapter explores the labor force in these activities, the efficiency of animals, and the use of tools for cultivation in pre-industrial societies. The third chapter presents the history of Roman aqueducts, from the early use of natural springs to the construction of complex water supply systems. Earlier hydraulic constructions and Roman innovations are examined. In the fourth chapter, the basic principles and techniques used in the construction of aqueducts are highlighted. These include the identification of sources, the collection and conveyance of water into channels, the topographical instruments and tools, as well as the methods of water filtration and distribution. The fifth chapter provides a detailed examination of the case of the Uxama Argaela aqueduct. The history of the city, the construction and operation of the northern and eastern aqueducts, as well as the technique of water lifting with the Noria method, are presented. An attempt is made to estimate the efficiency of the Noria system using animals and humans, while the operating cost of the Noria is compared with that of a modern pump. In the sixth chapter, the study's findings are summarized, presenting the results of the comparisons made in the work, and finally, the contribution of Roman aqueducts to the improvement of quality of life and the development of urban centers is highlighted.