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Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Baixa

Location

Located in the lower part of the city of Coimbra, Fonte Nova is harmoniously integrated into the central platform of the Escadas de Montarroio. This pedestrian route, which connects different levels of the city, gives it a privileged position, facing south, guaranteeing good natural light exposure. Its accessibility and visibility make it an inviting point of interest in the heart of the urban area.

A Centenarian History

The history of Fonte Nova dates back to medieval times, with its first known mention in the year 1137. At that time, it was designated as Fonte dos Judeus (Fountain of the Jews), given its proximity to the old Jewish quarter of Coimbra. By 1429, the name "Fonte Nova" (New Fountain) was in common use, perhaps reflecting a renovation or its continued importance in the life of the Coimbra community.

The fountain that can be admired today was built in 1725, under the patronage of Dr. Pedro Rodrigues de Almeida, a magistrate of D. João V. Curiously, this notable Baroque piece did not always occupy the same location. Originally erected in the Largo da Fonte Nova, also known as Largo da Freiria de Baixo, next to Rua da Sofia, Fonte Nova underwent several relocations over time. It was moved in 1945 to a private property and, finally, in 1986, it found its current place, being carefully integrated into the construction of the Montarroio staircase.

Architectural Features and Symbolism

Sculpted in limestone, Fonte Nova exhibits an elegant and symmetrical composition, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. Its frontal body, flanked by Doric-style pilasters, supports an entablature crowned by a triangular pediment. This pediment is interrupted to make way for the national coat of arms, elegantly inserted in a cartouche, a detail that refers to its royal origin.

Below, two delicate volutes cap the structure, flanked by pedestals with pyramids. In the center, two mascarons stand out, from which water flows into a large tank with rounded corners, further enriched with an inscription alluding to its creation and the coat of arms of the city of Coimbra. Initially an essential public fountain for the water supply of the population, Fonte Nova is today an ornamental element of great historical and artistic value, inviting observation and enjoyment of the urban landscape.

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