S07 → N400
The Spike of Fascinating & Unexpected
SPIKE 59
→ DRAIN PIPE.
© 1. unknown — Drain pipe/gargoyle of the Church of St Mary, Yatton / 2. unknown / 3. kathleenkennedie — A dragon-head downpipe shoe from Mennetou-Sur-Cher in France / 4. unknown — Downspouts ornate cast iron / 5. unknown — Downspouts ornate cast iron / 6. unknown / 7. unknown — Animal shaped downspouts / 8. unknown / 9. Wikipedia — Dolphin-shaped rainwater downspouts, Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, Place des Ducs de Bourgogne, in Dijon / 10. Martin Beek — Goat Gargoyle, Cardiff Castle / 11. Matt Drobnik — Downspout gargoyle on St Vitus cathedral in Prague, Czech Republic / 12. unknown / 13. Casa Tahona — Plaza de Cervantes, Alcalá de Henares / 14. unknown — Cloaca Maxima silted up in the Tiber.
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In ancient Rome, sophisticated drainage systems were built using clay and lead pipes. The Cloaca Maxima, one of the world’s earliest sewage systems, constructed around 600 BCE, is still partially in use today. This remarkable engineering achievement not only managed waste and prevented flooding but also showcased the Romans’ advanced understanding of sanitation and public health, laying the foundation for modern plumbing and drainage systems. Nowadays, the world’s largest drain pipe, located in Shanghai, China, is an astounding 9.1 metres (30 feet) in diameter. Known as the “Dajiaochang Tunnel”, this massive drain pipe is a vital part of Shanghai’s flood prevention system, managing stormwater and reducing flooding during heavy rainfall.
Drain pipes also play a surprising role in wildlife conservation. In urban areas, special drain covers known as “wildlife kerbs” or “wildlife kerb ramps” are sometimes installed to help small animals, such as amphibians, safely navigate roads. These kerbs feature small openings or sloped ramps that allow creatures like frogs and newts to escape from storm drains, preventing them from getting trapped and aiding in the protection of local biodiversity.
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→ Sourced from: SYSTEM 02 (Altanube Pando)
→ Stored online: N400 Spikes Repository
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→ Search log: Google images / Drain pipes gallery
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