DE AQUAEDUCTU Meaning and
Definition
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De Aquaeductu is a Latin phrase that translates to "On the Aqueduct" in English. It refers to a work written by the ancient Roman engineer and architect Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, commonly known as Vitruvius.
Vitruvius' De Aquaeductu is a treatise on Roman aqueducts, which were an essential part of the water supply system developed by the Romans. The work provides a detailed account of the construction, design, and maintenance of these impressive hydraulic structures. It offers valuable insights into the technical and engineering aspects of aqueducts, including the methods employed for locating water sources, routing channels, and constructing arches and conduits.
The book is divided into ten chapters, each covering different aspects related to aqueducts and their importance to society. Vitruvius' explanations encompass not only the practicalities of building aqueducts but also the legal and administrative frameworks surrounding these infrastructure projects.
De Aquaeductu is considered a significant contribution to the field of hydraulic engineering, offering a comprehensive guide for engineers, architects, and researchers interested in understanding the Roman water supply system. The work provides insights into the Roman engineering prowess and the advanced techniques employed to ensure a constant water supply to the growing cities of the empire.
Beyond its technical content, De Aquaeductu also highlights the advancements in urban planning and public health made possible by the sophisticated aqueduct network. Overall, it serves as a valuable historical reference and a testament to the Roman civilization's innovation and ingenuity in providing water resources to its urban communities.
Etymology of DE AQUAEDUCTU
The word de aquaeductu is derived from Latin. De is a preposition meaning from or about, and aquaeductus is a compound word consisting of aqua meaning water and eductus, the past participle of educere, meaning to lead or to bring out. Thus, de aquaeductu can be translated as about water supply or concerning the aqueduct.
