The Aqua Appia is one of the earliest aqueducts built in ancient Rome, completed in 312 BCE. It was constructed to transport fresh water from springs located about 16 kilometers away from the city. The aqueduct primarily served the growing population of Rome and was crucial for public health and sanitation. The Aqua Appia was notable for its underground construction, which allowed it to avoid obstacles and maintain a steady gradient. It was an engineering marvel of its time and set the standard for future aqueducts, contributing significantly to the development of Roman infrastructure and urban planning.