Background

Aqueduct at the Red Gate: A Historic Waterway

Explore Augsburg's ingenious Aqueduct at the Red Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing centuries of innovative water management and engineering marvels.

4.5

The Aqueduct at the Red Gate in Augsburg is a remarkable testament to the city's historical water management system, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019. Part of a larger complex that includes three water towers and two fountain master houses, the aqueduct dates back to the 15th century, with significant modifications made in 1777. This ingenious structure once supplied Augsburg with both drinking water and power for its waterwheels, showcasing advanced engineering for its time. Visitors can explore the area around the Red Gate, descend into the former moat to view the aqueduct's impressive arches, and learn about the fascinating history of Augsburg's waterworks.

A brief summary to Aqueduct at the Red Gate

  • Rote-Torwall-Straße 14, Augsburg, Augsburg-Innenstadt, 86161, DE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Waterworks Museum inside the water towers for a deeper understanding of the aqueduct's function and Augsburg's water management history. Check opening times in advance.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Red Gate park (Rotes Torwall), enjoying the open-air stage and the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Look for guided tours that include access to the interior of the water towers for a more in-depth experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Augsburg's Königsplatz, take tram line 2 (direction Haunstetten Nord), tram line 3 (direction Haunstetten West P+R), or tram line 6 (direction Friedberg West P+R) to the 'Rotes Tor' stop. The aqueduct is a short walk from the tram stop, within the park at the Red Gate. A single tram ticket within Augsburg city zones 10 and 20 costs approximately €2.60.

  • Walking

    From Augsburg city center (e.g., Rathausplatz), walk east along the main road (Maximilianstraße), then turn south towards the Rotes Tor (Red Gate). The aqueduct is located within the park area just before the Red Gate. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Augsburg Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the Aqueduct at the Red Gate (Rote-Torwall-Straße 14) will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. The journey takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Rote-Torwall-Straße 14, 86161 Augsburg. Limited street parking is available nearby. Parking fees in the area typically range from €1-€2 per hour. Consider using a Park and Ride (P+R) option outside the city center and taking public transport for the final leg to avoid parking difficulties.

Unlock the Best of Aqueduct at the Red Gate

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Aqueduct at the Red Gate

The Aqueduct at the Red Gate, or *Aquädukt am Roten Tor* in German, stands as a proud symbol of Augsburg's innovative water management system, a system so significant that it earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2019. This impressive structure is an integral part of the Waterworks at the Red Gate, an ensemble that includes three historic water towers, two fountain master houses, and the aqueduct itself. Together, these components tell the story of how Augsburg ingeniously harnessed water for both drinking and industrial purposes for centuries. The history of the aqueduct dates back to the 15th century, with the first water tower being constructed in 1416. Over the centuries, the system was continually refined and improved, drawing admiration from across Europe as a marvel of engineering. The aqueduct, in its current form, largely reflects the work done in 1777 under Johann Christian Singer, though its foundations are much older. It was designed to channel water from two sources: the Lech River and local springs. The Lech water powered the city's waterwheels, while the spring water, kept separate to ensure purity, provided drinking water to the city's residents. The aqueduct itself is a two-story brick structure featuring six double arches that span the Red Torwall ditch. The upper level carried the traffic route to the city gate, while the lower level housed the water pipe. This design cleverly integrated the aqueduct into the city's infrastructure, making it both functional and visually striking. Visiting the Aqueduct at the Red Gate offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the ingenuity of past engineers. The park at the Red Gate, formerly a moat, is open to the public around the clock, allowing visitors to view the aqueduct's massive structure from below. A descent into the moat provides an up-close perspective of the aqueduct's arches and the intricate brickwork that has withstood the test of time. While exploring the area, take time to admire the three water towers that complete the Waterworks at the Red Gate. The Large Water Tower, dating back to 1416, is believed to be the oldest in Germany and possibly Central Europe. The Small Water Tower, built in 1470, and the Box Tower, constructed in 1599, each have their own unique architectural features and played a crucial role in regulating the water pressure and distribution throughout the city. Although the aqueduct no longer carries drinking water, its legacy lives on as a testament to Augsburg's rich history and engineering prowess. The city's water management system, of which the aqueduct is a vital part, has been recognized as a significant cultural heritage site, attracting visitors from around the world. Exploring the Aqueduct at the Red Gate provides a fascinating glimpse into the past and a deeper understanding of the innovative solutions that shaped the city of Augsburg. Today, visitors can also explore the adjacent water towers through guided tours, gaining insights into the complex mechanisms that once powered the city's water supply. The hydrotechnical models, including those by Caspar Walter, are on display at the Maximilian Museum, offering a further glimpse into the history of Augsburg's waterworks. The Aqueduct at the Red Gate is more than just a historical landmark; it's a living testament to human ingenuity and the enduring power of water. A visit to this remarkable site is an essential experience for anyone interested in history, engineering, or the cultural heritage of Augsburg.

Popular Experiences near Aqueduct at the Red Gate

Popular Hotels near Aqueduct at the Red Gate

Select Currency