Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction
District: Castelo Branco > Covilhã > Covilhã > Biquinha
The Poço do Meio Quartilho is located in the city of Covilhã, in the district of Castelo Branco, within the area known as Biquinha. This location evokes a typically urban environment, but one that was once deeply connected to the management and utilization of the region's natural water resources. The name Biquinha itself suggests the historical presence of springs and watercourses, giving the Poço do Meio Quartilho a setting that refers to the vital importance of water in the daily lives of mountain communities.
Situated in an area that invites the discovery of more discreet details of Covilhã's urban fabric, this place offers a glimpse into the past, away from the central hustle and bustle, but integrated into the historical identity of the city. Its presence is a subtle reminder of how past generations interacted with the surrounding natural environment.
A well, in its genesis, represents a source of life and a meeting point. The Poço do Meio Quartilho is no exception, and its existence in Covilhã reflects the historical dependence of populations on underground water resources. Although its specific history may be shrouded in mystery, the designation "Meio Quartilho" (Half Quart) is particularly intriguing, suggesting an ancient measure, perhaps related to the amount of water drawn from it, its modest flow, or some local anecdote that gave it its name over time. It is an echo of a time when water was measured and valued with precision, revealing a different economy and way of life.
This well, perhaps simple in its structure, embodies intangible heritage, telling a story of subsistence and adaptation. It represents a testament to an era when daily life revolved around fundamental elements such as water, giving it a symbolic value that transcends its original function.
The Poço do Meio Quartilho, as an attraction, offers a discovery experience for those seeking to understand the soul of Covilhã beyond its most prominent points. It is an invitation to contemplate an element that was crucial to the development of the local community. Its presence in Biquinha reinforces the idea that the city holds memories and narratives in every corner, in every seemingly insignificant detail.
A visit to this well allows for a connection with the past and with the people who, over the centuries, drew water from it. It is a point that evokes the simplicity and authenticity of basic human needs, and how these were met through local ingenuity and the utilization of natural resources. Its existence underscores the richness of vernacular heritage and the importance of preserving these small gems that narrate the history of a place.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.294209538095, -7.5405862571429
Coordinates DMS: 40°17'39.2"N 07°32'26.1"W
On-duty Pharmacy Covilhã
