Pausilippo Tunnel

ancient tunnel, Italy

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July 23, 2026

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The Pausilippo Tunnel, constructed in 36 BCE, was a significant Roman engineering feat. Located between Naples and Pozzuoli in Italy, it measured approximately 4,800 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 30 feet high, making it one of the largest tunnels of its time. This road tunnel was crucial for transportation and demonstrates the advanced tunneling capabilities of the Romans. Ancient tunnels, like this one, were often built using methods such as fire quenching to break rock and advanced surveying techniques for alignment.12

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tunnels and underground excavations
Ancient tunnels
…25-foot-wide, 30-foot-high road tunnel (the Pausilippo) between Naples and Pozzuoli, executed in 36 bce. By that time surveying methods (commonly by string line and plumb bobs) had been introduced, and tunnels were advanced from a succession of closely spaced shafts to provide ventilation. To save the need for a lining,…
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…25-foot-wide, 30-foot-high road tunnel (the Pausilippo) between Naples and Pozzuoli, executed in 36 bce. By that time surveying methods (commonly by string line and plumb bobs) had been introduced, and tunnels were advanced from a succession of closely spaced shafts to provide ventilation. To save the need for a lining,…
Read More