Evolution of water supplies in the Hellenic world focusing on water treatment and modern parallels

Advanced, well organized, and operated urban water supply systems existed in Greece from the Bronze Age (ca. 3200–1100 BC). At the dawn of human history, surface water and groundwater, principally springs, were the most common water supply sources. As the population grew, periodic water shortages occurred. In Early Minoan times (ca. 3200–2100 BC), these water shortages led to the development of sophisticated hydraulic structures for importing water and for the harvesting and storage of rainwater. In addition, the water treatment technologies and water distribution techniques developed at that time served as the basis for the advanced technological progress in the development of the urban water supply systems in the centuries that followed. In this paper, an overview of the evolution of public water supplies and water treatment technologies in the Hellenic world through the centuries up to modern times is presented. Some of the most significant innovations in the provision of water, its treatment, and distribution are highlighted. The overview is followed by a discussion of the contemporary situation, emerging trends, and future challenges, and parallels are drawn between historical developments and the water supply problems faced today.