The ancient Lake Albano tunnel: origins and considerations regarding the hydraulic regulation achieved

A brief description of the geomorphological, historical, and archaeological aspects of the Colli Albani area, where the volcanic lakes of Albano and Nemi are situated, is followed by an examination on the problem of the policies of lake Albano regulation, by means of an ancient tunnel dating at least to the 5th century BC. In particular, it is investigated how, in the presence of even severe atmospheric phenomena, it was possible to control fluctuations in the level of the lake on the banks of which there were large settlements. Mathematical model simulations indicate the effectiveness of the ancient tunnel in achieving these objectives.