Aljub de La Devesa

The Devesa cistern is a traditional structure built using the dry-stone technique, utilizing only the locally available limestone rock, with the purpose of storing and distributing water.

Dry-Stone Architecture

"Dry Stone" or "Pedra en Sec" is an ancient construction technique characterized by the exclusive use of strategically placed stones, without any mortar or binding material. Instead of relying on adhesives, this technique takes advantage of the weight of the stones and the force of gravity to achieve stability and durability. Its origins date back to prehistory, and over millennia, it has been refined and adapted, spreading across various parts of the world. Dry-stone construction meets both the basic needs of the societies that used it and the ability to make the most of the natural resources available in the environment.

In our region, this technique has given rise to a wide variety of architectural elements, all closely linked to adaptation to the natural environment and traditional productive activities such as agriculture, livestock farming, and housing construction. These elements make up what is known as dry-stone architecture, a heritage that, in November 2018, was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Devesa Cistern

Its structure is divided into two parts: the lower section contains the well excavated into the ground, where water is collected, while the upper section consists of the roof and the access opening. The roof is formed by a false vault built using the slab approximation technique, and the interior is filled with a mass of stones, reinforcing the stability of the structure.

This cistern is part of a broader set of structures linked to a nearby rural settlement. La Devesa, an elevated area with limited water resources, makes the collection of rainwater runoff crucial to ensuring a reliable water supply in the region. Therefore, the cistern is a key element in water management in this area.