As reported in Science Daily, a university professor has published details about a vast system of tunnels still lying underneath the streets of the English town of Exeter. These tunnels served an important purpose in the 14th and 15th centuries, and as is noted in the article, “These once channeled fresh drinking-water from springs outside the town-walls to public fountains at the heart of the city.”

The water was first carried throughout town in pipes and since pipes can leak from time to time, it was decided that tunnels would be built around the pipes to get to them easier and quicker, instead of having to unbury them. To help with the upkeep, a plumber was even hired along with a team of people to help with maintaining the system.

We can certainly appreciate the hard work that went into the upkeep of this certainly massive system during this time. We can appreciate the same dedication that goes into the upkeep of our water systems today.