Fountain

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Aveiro > Santa Maria da Feira > Mozelos

Location:

This fountain is located in the very heart of the historic center of Santa Maria da Feira, occupying a central position in the Praça da República. The square, carefully paved with rounded pebbles and Portuguese cobblestones, displays geometric stone patterns that complement the beauty of the space. The slightly uneven terrain is gracefully overcome by a few steps, giving the ensemble a sense of elevation and prominence within the surrounding urban environment.

Around the fountain, a series of buildings can be observed which, due to their balanced volume, contribute to the harmony of the square. This setting provides a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful break during a stroll through the heart of the city.

Baroque Legacy:

Dating back to the 18th century, the Fountain of Praça da República is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture. Its design presents itself as a tiered fountain, standing out for its central structure and the elegance of its forms. Predominantly built of granite, this element is a testament to the artisanal skill of the time, reflecting the aesthetics and artistic values that marked that period.

The design of the piece is characterized by a quadrilobed base basin, where the faces form segments of a circle, giving it a distinctive silhouette. From its base, a richly ornamented column rises, supporting the tiers from which water gushes, culminating in a finial that crowns its grandeur.

Artistic Details:

The decorative details of this fountain are one of its most interesting aspects. The central column, in the shape of a baluster, is adorned with intricate acanthus leaves, a classic motif of Baroque art. The lower basin, circular in shape, has a base decorated with geometric patterns and a projecting rim that enhances its dimension.

From this basin emerge four symmetrically positioned sculpted mascarons, from whose mouths spurt the water spouts. Above, a second, more slender column supports a smaller circular basin with identical decoration. The ensemble is topped by a ball decorated with four other spouts and surmounted by a pinecone, completing the artistic and functional composition of the fountain.

A Fountain with History:

The history of this fountain dates back to the 18th century, its construction originally intended for the cloister of the old Loios convent. This fact lends it an additional layer of interest, as it reveals its origin and its adaptation over time. Designed for a purely hydraulic function, the supply of water, the fountain today plays a different role.

Currently, the fountain functions as an ornamental fountain, contributing to the beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Praça da República. Its presence serves not only as a decorative element but also as a visible link to the locality's past, inviting a moment of contemplation and appreciation of Santa Maria da Feira's cultural heritage.

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