Los Túneles subterráneos de San Germán facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Alcantarilla Pluvial sobre la Quebrada Manzanares
|
|
|
U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
|
 |
|
| Location | Extending from approximately the junction of Ferrocarril and Esperanza Streets to approximately the junction of Javilla and Ensanche Streets San German, Puerto Rico |
|---|---|
| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | 1835 |
| Part of | San Germán Historic District (ID94000084) |
| NRHP reference No. | 90000552 |
| Added to NRHP | April 12, 1990 |
The Los Túneles subterráneos de San Germán are a hidden network of underground passages in San Germán, Puerto Rico. These tunnels were built way back in 1835. Their main job is to act as a storm sewer system. This means they help carry away rainwater and prevent flooding in the town.
The system has a main tunnel and several smaller tunnels branching off from it. It was mostly built using bricks and rubble. Some parts have been repaired with modern concrete over the years.
Contents
What are the San Germán Tunnels?
The San Germán tunnels are like an underground river. They follow the path of the Quebrada Manzanares, which is a stream. The main tunnel covers the stream's course from where it starts underground to where it comes back out as a surface stream. This main section is about 842.53 meters long.
Why Were They Built?
Before the tunnels were built, the Quebrada Manzanares stream would often flood the town of San Germán. This caused many problems for the people living there. To solve this, the tunnels were constructed in 1835. Their purpose was to guide the stream's water safely underground. This helped protect the town from floods.
How Were They Built?
The tunnels were built using a special design called a "vaulted brick" system. This means they have arched ceilings made of bricks. The main materials used were brick and rubble. Over time, some sections of the tunnels have been repaired using concrete. Many of the smaller, older branches of the tunnels were built before 1910. Most of these older branches are now sealed off.
A Historic Landmark
The sections of the tunnels that were built up to 1918 are very important. They are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a special list in the United States that recognizes places important to history. The tunnels are known on this list as Alcantarilla Pluvial sobre la Quebrada Manzanares. Being on this list helps protect them for future generations.
See also
In Spanish: Túneles subterráneos de San Germán para niños
