Purpose | Water supply |
Designer | Unknown |
Location | |
Damaged by | 19th-century earthquake |
Current status | Historical site |
Main challenges | Maintenance and preservation |
Construction period | Centuries ago |
The Aqueduct of Toco is a monumental ancient structure located near the desert city of Lostara in an alternate timeline's continent of Delfhyria. Constructed over centuries by the use of slave labor and designed by famous engineer Parvo, the aqueduct served as a vital source of fresh water for the capital, enabling it to grow and prosper.
Originating as the brainchild of Parvo, a legendary engineer of his time, the Aqueduct of Toco was designed and built to be a marvel of human ingenuity and architectural prowess. Three massive archways serve as the foundation for this grand structure that traversed the rugged terrain and steep inclines, covering an impressive distance of 120 miles. Slave labor was employed extensively during construction in order to maintain the sheer scale, precision, and ambition of the project.
The aqueduct had a profound impact on Lostara's growth and prosperity. Prior to its establishment, water scarcity was a significant issue for the city, hinderings its expansion. However, the introduction of fresh water from hundreds of miles away rapidly transformed the landscape and catalyzed urbanization throughout Lostara. The availability of water allowed for the cultivation of lush gardens, orchards, and agricultural lands; further facilitated by the city's rising population, which quickly grew to become a bustling metropolis.
Despite the architectural brilliance in place, the Aqueduct of Toco suffered severe damage during a catastrophic earthquake in the 19th century. The earth beneath the aqueduct shifted violently, causing sections of this massive structure to collapse. The once-reliable source of fresh water now struggled to maintain a steady flow, and the city's inhabitants were left with far less water than before.
With the incredible attention given to its construction and design, preservation efforts have been ongoing in order to maintain and restore the Aqueduct of Toco. The structure's historical significance and cultural importance in Lostarai society mean that the aqueduct itself has become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors frequently marveling at its sheer scale and audacious design. However, sustainably maintaining this centuries-old engineering marvel remains an ongoing challenge, with recurring issues related to its deteriorating condition and lack of resources for proper preservation. Despite these challenges, efforts to preserve this awe-inspiring structure continue, and the aqueduct remains a symbol of the indomitable spirit of human ingenuity at its finest.