Fountain of Bicas

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Açores > Horta > Flamengos

Location

Located in the parish of Flamengos, in the municipality of Horta, on Faial Island, the Fontanário das Bicas (Fountain of the Spouts) is set in a calm and traditional environment. This predominantly rural locality invites a serene stroll, where the pace of life seems to slow down. The fountain is integrated into the parish's urban fabric, accessible via one of its streets, punctuating the local landscape with its discreet and historic presence.

A Meeting and Supply Point

The Fontanário das Bicas, like other similar landmarks in older communities, played a central role in the daily lives of Flamengos' inhabitants. Before the arrival of piped water to homes, this was where families sourced their water, ensuring access to a vital resource. More than just a simple water collection point, this fountain served as a natural meeting place, where news was exchanged and daily moments were shared, making it a living testament to the routines and social dynamics of the parish's past.

Architecture and Tranquil Environment

With its simple and functional architecture, the Fontanário das Bicas is typically built from local stone, reflecting the sobriety and solidity characteristic of public works from times past. Its "bicas" (spouts), which give it its name, are the distinctive elements from which water flows, contributing to a tranquil and relaxing auditory environment. Its presence in the parish landscape invites a pause, offering a glimpse into the practical aesthetic that shaped the island's daily life over time. It is a place that conveys a sense of calm, where the murmur of water invites contemplation.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt