The precise epoch of the construction of this aqueduct is not known, although it is commonly attributed to the Emperor Justinian II. This aqueduct receives also water from two others, the principal of which is known under the name of

Solyman. This is sixteen hundred feet long, and eighty feet high, and consists of two stories of fifty arches each. It is a Turkish work. Another aqueduct also conveys water into that of Justinian, and is generally supposed to be of the age of Constantine. It is

three stories high ; the lowest tier consists of thirty-three arches, fifteen feet wide, the second of twelve arches, and the uppermost of four. It is three hundred and fifty feet in length.

All these magnificent and costly structures are intended for the supply of Constantinople

alone, and we will now trace the course of the water. Leaving the aqueduct of Justinian, it follows the right bank of the Cydaris, and receiving in its course various tributary rivulets from the neighboring hills, it enters within the walls of Constantinople near the aygry

It was impossible to kapoosi, or crooked gate, whence it is distributed over the city. ascertain the quantity of water furnished throug-h this series of hydraulic works but, ;

than fifteen judging by comparison with that which supplies the suburbs, it cannot be less millions of gallons within twenty-four hours.

PRELIMINARY ESSAY. 43

" We will now return to the aqueduct of Batchikeui, and follow the direction of its waters. These are carefully brought round the heads of the valleys in covered canals, in which there are at certain intervals, sudden breaks or alterations in the level, which answer the double purpose of agitating the water in contact with air, and of precipitating its impurities. It likewise affords fountains on the road for the use of cattle and weary travellers.