Kanálisok · city chapter

Moscow

Deep beneath the metropolis

When Moscow’s first modern sewer system was commissioned on July 30, 1898, only 219 properties were initially connected. Wastewater was pumped to the Lyublino irrigation fields, where it was purified through the soil.

Manhole cover from this city

Moscow beneath the surface

Construction of the Russian capital’s sewer system began in the late 19th century according to plans by engineer Kastalsky. The first section was commissioned in July 1898. Today the sewer network extends for more than 11,000 kilometres.

The sewers were designed to make use of gravity. The photographs show crystal formations, root intrusion and masonry from different periods.

Photo gallery