The pipe in question does not originate from Roman times, but was built during the 16th century by Juan de Flandes. This new structure replaced a 12th century pipe that crossed the current neighborhood of La Data.

The Plasencia aqueduct system collected water from the Cabezabellosa and El Torno mountain ranges. Several spring intakes were connected to a pipe consisting of spliced clay pipes. This pipe meandered through berrocales and uneven terrain. Approaching Plasencia, it was transformed into an aqueduct built with granite masonry. It then directed the water to the fortress of Don Luis de Ávila y Zúñiga. Near this fortress there was a reservoir from which the water was distributed to the public fountains of the city.

Currently, 55 arches are preserved, mostly in the area of San Antón. These arches owe their popular name, Arcos de San Antón, to a church dedicated to this saint that used to be in that area. The aqueduct is 300 meters long and reaches a height of 18 meters at its highest point. It is made up of sturdy pilasters and semicircular arches with practically uniform voussoirs. During the Spanish Civil War, several arches were destroyed by bombing, including those that cross the N-630 road, also known as Ruta de la Plata. These arches had to be restored, and can be distinguished by the color of the stones used. The proliferation of plants in the stone joints caused fires during fireworks displays at the nearby traffic playground.

In 2009, another section of the aqueduct began to lean, requiring restoration work to prevent its collapse.

Seven of the fifty-five arches of the aqueduct are near the Hospital Virgen del Puerto, in an area fitted out as a picnic area that offers beautiful views of the local pastures. At this point, the first granite arches can be seen. This rest area is perfect for those who wish to head by road to the Ermita de la Virgen del Puerto, the patron saint of Plasencia.