Pompeiian cisterns

Pompeian cisterns were large underground or enclosed tanks used by ancient Romans to store rainwater and groundwater. Built with durable materials like stone or concrete, they collected and stored water for daily household use, firefighting, and public baths, especially in areas lacking natural water sources. These cisterns often had multiple chambers, filtration systems, and gravity-fed outlets to ensure a steady, clean water supply. Their engineering showcased advanced understanding of water management, helping sustain the community’s needs in Pompeii before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.