The irrigation canal of Torres, on the left bank of the Segre River and with a similar path to the canal of Fontanet, is named after the town of Torres de Segre with which it connects to Lleida. It consists of a centuries-old ditch of about 22 km, which, still today, is used to irrigate the farmlands of Horta de Lleida and supply water to various industries in the zone.
It probably dates back to Roman times, although the earliest document on record which mentions this canal for irrigating Horta de Lleida with water from the Segre is from the year 1154 and is called Vetula (that is, which already existed during the Arab domination).
With different paths depending on the points from which it took water from the river and brought it back, the canal has been a source of life for centuries for the farmers on the city’s south side. Although its current path is more strongly determined by the city's urban growth, it remains, today, an artery of water which runs parallel to the river from Vilanova de la Barca to Torres de Segre.
Remarks
- The Séquia de Torres irrigates a total of approx. 1.300 hectares of Horta de Lleida (Copa d'Or and Femosa), Albatàrrec, Montoliu de Lleida, Sudanell, up to Torres de Segre.
- A flat and simple route can be taken along the canal route, both on foot and by bike, suitable for families.
- Guided visits to discover the traditional watering holes of Horta de Lleida can be organized, in charge of the Lleida Drought Board.
Related routes
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Nature of Lleida The Segre is an artery of life which, in its course over the plain of Lleida, offers spectacular contrasts