Water supply and the development of civilization – short historical summary

Abstract: The paper outlines the history of water supply to cities - from the Bronze Age to the beginning of the 19th century - as well as briefly describes the methods of sewage disposal from cities. The water supply of Polish towns in the Middle Ages was described in more detail. Waterworks of medieval Krakow and medieval castle toilets are discussed. Changes - periods of development and decline - of water and sewage systems in former Poland are presented.