Vegetable Patch Spring

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > Sé

Location

The Campo das Hortas Fountain is located in the square of the same name, within the Sé parish, in the heart of Braga. It is situated on a landscaped platform in the city's urban centre, establishing a visual dialogue with the Arch of Porta Nova, marking one of its historic and traditional entrances.

Journey Through Time

This fountain was designed at the end of the 16th century, specifically in 1594, commissioned by Archbishop D. Frei Agostinho de Jesus. Its construction was carried out by master stonemason Manuel Luís, highlighting the skill of the artisans of the time. Initially, the fountain adorned the old Campo de Santa Ana, which corresponds to today's Avenida Central.

However, over the centuries, the fountain changed location: in the 19th century, it was moved to Praça do Comércio, and in 1914, it found its definitive location in Campo das Hortas, where it remains to this day. In recognition of its historical and artistic value, the Campo das Hortas Fountain was officially classified as a Monument of Municipal Interest in 2022, underscoring its importance in Braga's heritage.

Artistic Details

With a distinct Mannerist style, the fountain features a pyramidal structure that tapers as it rises, composed of two superimposed circular basins. Its design follows a model established in Portugal by other fountains of the period, serving as an aesthetic reference.

The entire piece is carved from granite, with a profusion of ornaments that capture the eye. We can observe decorations with grotesques, six spouts in the shape of gargoyles and atlantes that seem to support the structure. Further up, the coat of arms of Archbishop D. Frei Agostinho de Jesus is visible, before culminating in a vegetalist crowning, topped by an armillary sphere and a cardinal cross, metal elements that complete the richness of the ensemble.

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