the water heritage in buenos aires: buildings, architectural complexes and cultural landscapes

Since its foundation, the origin and destination of Buenos Aires was linked to the existence of a water source to ensure the life and activities of its population: the great estuary of La Plata River. The city – port and gateway to the land, the historic capital of the Nation Argentina will reach in the second middle of 19Th century the major index of demographic and building growing of its history. And, it will be affected by serious epidemics waves that put on crisis the weak local health system. These and other factors, led to the construction of the first water supply facilities, sewers and sewage at the new reality scale (1869). Thus a process in which issues related to sanitation, hygiene, and public healthwas started and it is becoming increasingly important on the agenda of governments. Throughout half a century it will be implemented the main works of sanitation: treatment plants, distribution depots, distribution systems, power plants, sewage, etc. This paper addresses for the collection, purificationand distribution of water. This industrial heritage, along with the landscape of “Rio de la Plata” facing the city and its region, sets precious references to its identity.