La Cisterna

In the old town of Xeraco is one of the village's more unusual stops: La Cisterna, an underground barrel-vaulted cistern built between 1885 and 1888 to collect water from local springs. Now a small local museum, it shows how the town got its water before running water arrived.

History

La Cisterna was built in the late 19th century, when villages like this depended entirely on springs and rainfall for water. Construction, dated between 1885 and 1888, met a specific need: to store and keep water safe throughout the year. The barrel vault, typical of the region's water architecture, kept the interior cool and protected.

What to see

The main draw is going down into the cistern and feeling the cool, quiet air of this piece of local engineering. Now a small museum, it gives a close look at how people lived in the past.

• The underground stone vault.
• Objects and tools connected to water and local life.
• Panels explaining how the town got water before running water.

Tips for your visit

• It's a short visit, good to combine with a walk through the old town.
• Bring a light jacket: the inside is noticeably cooler.
• Check opening hours before you go, as they can be limited.