Augsburg's historic water supply system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019, covers the network of canals, water towers, and pumping stations that have supplied the city since the medieval period. The system was one of the most sophisticated in Europe when it was built, and several of its original structures survive: the three water towers near the Rotes Tor (Red Gate) can be explored, and the canal system still flows through the old town. A free trail map from the tourist office connects the main surviving elements on a 90-minute walking route.
Augsburg Water Management System
UNESCO-listed Renaissance water management system still supplying the city
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Augsburg's water management system has been in continuous operation since the 14th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site — one of the few pieces of urban infrastructure to receive that designation. The system supplied clean water to the city's fountains (including the three famous Renaissance fountains on Maximilianstrasse) through a network of canals, water towers, and pumping houses. The three historic water towers near the Rotes Tor still stand and can be visited.