The Acueducto del Águila (Eagle Aqueduct) is a remarkable piece of historic Spanish architecture in the countryside near the village of Maro. Bridging two sides of a rocky ravine in the Barranco de la Coladilla, the structure was formerly used to supply water to the nearby San Joaquín sugar mill. Admire the astonishing view that combines magnificent Mudéjar architecture with a picturesque mountain panorama when you visit this intriguing landmark on the Costa del Sol.
Stop by the roadside viewing area to see the best view of the Eagle Aqueduct. This view looks north toward the rear of the façade. Check out the aqueduct’s four-story construction, which incorporates 38 horseshoe-shaped arches and a beautiful Mudéjar-style brick façade. The top tier of the aqueduct has a spire and a central weather vane in the shape of a two-headed eagle, which is where the bridge’s nickname is derived. Appreciate the aqueduct’s immense 131-foot (40-meter) height and 295-foot (90-meter) width from the viewing area.
The owner of the San Joaquín sugar mill, Francisco Cantarero Senio, commissioned the aqueduct in the 19th century, when the sugar-cane industry was expanding in the Nerja area. Today, the aqueduct is still used for local irrigation and is a treasured feature in the Nerja landscape. Take photographs of the striking monument and see if you can spot the sections that were damaged during the Spanish Civil War. Careful repairs in the 21st century have restored the aqueduct to its former beauty.
Reach the Acueducto del Águila (Eagle Aqueduct) as a stopover on your journey toward Las Cuevas de Nerja (Nerja Caves) and park at the designated roadside viewing area. Alternatively, stroll from the nearby village of Maro or take the pleasant 10-minute walk from the eastern side of Nerja. If you are feeling adventurous, you can get a closer look at the aqueduct by hiking through the dry riverbed and inspecting the construction at its base. This attraction is free to visit at any time.
