Most aqueducts were hand-dug earthen ditches that maneuvered the terrain. In some cases, they had to build aqueducts to cross over creeks or other barriers shown in this structure. The Espada Aqueduct is the oldest Spanish aqueduct in the United States. The aqueduct carries water over a Six-mile creek (historically Piedras Creek) connecting the ditches. The aqueduct is located north of Mission Espada, one of the historic missions in the San Antonio area. Water can still be seen today flowing over the aqueduct to Mission Espada.
Built between 1740 and 1745 the structure showcases European engineering feats and masonry work that has withstood major floods and survived over 275 years. The aqueduct was built with two arches and a support pier.
This site has 3 designations: National Park, World Heritage Site, and National Historic Landmark.
This is a beautiful location and an amazing engineering feat considering the age and detail involved and the patience taken to move precious water from one area to another. Before the development of the aqueduct water would have been carried a great distance in this arid region in carved wooden logs to refresh people and plants.
The area has uneven surfaces that with care can be navigated by those with limitations though they may not be able to reach the lower levels of the piers on the aqueduct.
LINKS:
https://www.nps.gov/places/espada-aqueduct.htm