Three Spouts Fountain

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Beja > Moura > Moura > Quinta de Santo António da Pipa

Location

The Fountain of Three Spouts is located in the city of Moura, in Sacadura Cabral Square. This monumental fountain is situated in a central and historic area of the municipality, adjacent to the building that once housed the old Town Hall. Its presence in the square contributes to the distinctive and traditional atmosphere of this part of the locality, inviting a moment of quiet observation in the heart of Alentejo.

A Historical Legacy

Dated 1815, as per the inscription visible on its structure, the Fountain of Three Spouts was erected on the initiative of the citizens of Moura and their representatives. Its primary objective was to serve public utility, being dedicated to King John VI. This hydraulic monument is a testament to the importance water has always held for the local community, maintaining its function as a fountain since its construction and preserving a link to the town's past.

Aesthetics and Details

The Fountain of Three Spouts is an interesting example of the architectural transition between the Baroque and Neoclassical styles, visible in its forms and decorative elements. The structure rests on stone steps and features a white marble basin with an unusually polylobed shape. The water chest, with its three bronze spouts, rises in three panels, the central one more prominent, flanked by gray marble columns with white marble bases and capitals. In the central panel, the city's heraldic coat of arms stands out, along with an oval medallion featuring the bust of King John VI, portrayed in the Roman style, with a laurel wreath. At the top, an elegant balustrade precedes a polylobed cartouche with the national arms, framed by ornate volutes and surmounted by a sculpted griffin in full relief, which lend a touch of grandeur to the ensemble.

Noble Materials

The imposing nature of the Fountain of Three Spouts is largely due to the choice of materials used in its construction. Marble stonework predominates, with the combination of white and gray tones creating a subtle and elegant visual contrast. The spouts, from which the water flows, are made of bronze, adding a detail of durability and beauty. This careful selection of materials highlights the monument's importance and the craftsmanship of the artisans of the time.

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