TAOUILA TANKS

Built by the Himyarites to collect rainwater, fuel Aden and protect the city of floods, these 20 tanks can contain up to 1 million gallons (4,54 English gallon = litres). They were dug in the rock and seen connected to each other by channels. A last pipe went in the center of the city to reject the plein to the sea. Used until the th century, they were later abandoned. Rediscovered by an English lieutenant, Lambert, the tanks were rehabilitated and re-fonctionnèrent during the British colonization. They were then abandoned, and the last pipe leading to the sea was destroyed to open lanes. In February 1993, torrential rains took over tanks, taking houses and causing significant damage in the city. Tanks are located in a planted park. A trail, then a staircase runs along the site and leads to the top of the mountain (which is a volcano). The railings of the staircase shall stop at the height of the third tank. Then, the stairs, with very worn stairs, spacer the vacuum: committing to it may be dangerous. In the small park, a kiosk sells water, tea and fresh drinks. The entrance is not paid but it is customary to give a tip to the custodian.