Abstract

PALERM-VIQUEIRA, Jacinta. Filtrating galleries or Qanats in México: introduction and typology of techniques. agric. soc. desarro [online]. 2004, vol.1, n.2, pp.133-145. ISSN 1870-5472.

The qanat or filtration gallery is a millenary technique, originated in the Near East, to convey underground waters to the surface by means of gravity. It is characterized by using mining techniques to raise occult waters in alluvial fans. It is a traditional technology, in the sense that the knowledge for its construction resides in local populations; and that its introduction to México was during the early colonial years, or even a prehispanic origin has been proposed. In this paper, the evidence of qanat construction dates in México are discussed, based on the existing cases of qanats and their relationship with mining techniques, as well as the evidence of construction by the local population with traditional knowledge, or by engineers. The technological diversity of qanats, in México and worldwide, is also reviewed.

Keywords : Subsurface waters; water mines; spring tunnels.