Spring of Our Lady of the Dam

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Beja > Cuba > Vila Ruiva > Repreza

Location

The Fountain of Our Lady of Repreza is located in Repreza, a tranquil rural area in the locality of Vila Ruiva, belonging to the municipality of Cuba. It is set within the vast and characteristic Alentejo plain landscape, surrounded by extensive agricultural lands dotted with olive trees. The calm environment and the unobstructed view of the landscape provide a setting of quietude and authenticity.

Architectural Features

This diving fountain, probably built in the 17th century, reflects the sobriety and solidity typical of Alentejo regional architecture. Its construction is simple, with a regular, square plan, and a gabled roof covered with tile. The whitewashed volumes, which seem to merge with the earth, are only highlighted by delicate lines of shadow cast by their cornices, giving the structure a modest but robust appearance, in harmony with the surrounding landscape. The walls are of stone and mortar masonry, plastered and whitewashed.

A Space of Water and History

Access to the fountain is via an elbow-shaped staircase, composed of eight brick steps, which lead to a partially buried enclosure. This walled space houses a 'poial', a type of stone bench, and the diving fountain itself, protected by a small brick wall and covered by a barrel vault. The main façade, facing south, is pierced by a perfect arch that provides access to the water. Although the cornice and gable finishes are partially damaged, their original presence is crowned by a plinth.

Legacy and Function

The Fountain of Our Lady of Repreza was, and continues to be, a public fountain, playing a fundamental role in supplying water to the community. Throughout the centuries, it served as a water collection point and, consequently, as a social gathering place in rural life. Its initial and current use as a hydraulic source underscores its practical importance and its continuous value to local heritage. In 1999, the site underwent a general restoration, which included paving the access, contributing to its preservation and accessibility.

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