The Alcantarilla del Valle is a hydraulic infrastructure of the Southern Branch of the Canal de Castilla located in the municipality of Villamuriel de Cerrato (Palencia), at kilometer 100.190, within the section between the Dársena de Palencia and Lock 33. It is part of the system of minor works that made it possible to reconcile the canal’s route with the natural drainage network and the surrounding roads, guaranteeing the stability and proper functioning of the hydraulic system.
Its main function is to allow water to pass under the canal, preventing accumulations and overflows that could damage the infrastructure. It is a discreet structure, fully integrated into the landscape, designed with efficiency and durability criteria characteristic of the Canal de Castilla engineering. Although specific data on the arch type or dimensions are unavailable, the culvert employs common construction solutions for this type of structure, designed to easily and safely manage the crossing of runoff and small streams.
For visitors, the Alcantarilla del Valle offers an opportunity to understand the Canal de Castilla beyond its grand structures. Integrated into the open landscape of the Cerrato region, it invites one to focus on those silent yet essential infrastructures that made the canal’s continuous operation and its adaptation to the territory over time possible.
