Diogo Alves (1810 – 19 February 1841), often referred to as the "Aqueduct Murderer," was a notorious Portuguese serial killer and robber whose crimes cast a dark shadow over Lisbon in the early 19th century. His reign of terror lasted from 1836 to 1840, during which he claimed the lives of an estimated 70 people. His story is not only a grim chapter in Portuguese criminal history but also a fascinating case study in the psychology of a serial killer.

Early Life and Background

Diogo Alves was born in 1810 in Galicia, Spain, and later moved to Portugal. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that his journey into criminality began at a young age. The early 19th century in Portugal was a time of social and political unrest, which may have influenced Alves' descent into crime.

The Águas Livres Aqueduct Crimes

The Águas Livres Aqueduct, a remarkable architectural feat of the 18th century, became the infamous hunting ground for Alves. This structure, which was built to supply water to Lisbon, spanned a considerable height above the ground. Alves' modus operandi involved targeting travelers who traversed the aqueduct. He would rob them, and to ensure no witnesses were left, he pushed his victims off the aqueduct, leading to their deaths.