The Bellota Aqueduct, built between 1753 and 1757, is part of the first works on the Campos Branch of the Castile Canal and addresses the need to maintain the canal’s continuity over the small watercourses in the region. Located in the municipality of Becerril de Campos (Palencia), at kilometer 99.515, its function is to allow the passage of the Estaca stream under the canal, ensuring flow control and the stability of the hydraulic infrastructure.
The structure is resolved by means of a single arch whose vault adopts a segmental design, that is, a flattened arch that increases in cross-section at the opening, improving load distribution and water drainage. The arch has a variable span between 3.10 and 3.25 meters and an approximate height of between 0.45 and 2.40 meters. The entire structure reaches approximately 10.60 meters in length, with a width of nearly 29 meters and a total height of 4.20 meters. It is built entirely of limestone ashlar and is complemented by stone parapets that protect the structure and visually organize its appearance.
Integrated into the open landscape of Tierra de Campos, the Bellota Aqueduct offers visitors a peaceful stop to appreciate a sober and efficient work, understand the historical functioning of the Canal de Castilla and enjoy the harmony between engineering, water and territory.
