Ancient civilizations created networks of pipes and gutters, through which cities and settlements were supplied with water. The oldest water pipe is 4000 years old, it was discovered during archaeological excavations in Pakistan. Wood, clay or lead was used to produce plumbing pipes. According to one version, the use of lead for water pipes was the reason for the collapse of the Roman Empire, where a powerful and ramified water supply system was used. This material provoked the development of oncological diseases, causing the premature death of people, including rulers.