Source of Quinta do Arcediago

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Évora > Évora > Évora > Malagueira e Horta das Figueiras

Location

The Fountain of Quinta do Arcediago is located in an area further away from the historic center of Évora, in the Malagueira and Horta das Figueiras area. It is situated in a rural environment, surrounded by olive and cork trees, characteristic of the Alentejo landscape. Its location is notable for being close to the structures of the Aqueduto da Água da Prata (Silver Water Aqueduct), with which it was once connected, marking the historical presence of the city's water supply network.

Plunge Architecture

This fountain features an interesting structure, classified as a plunge fountain. Its shape is essentially quadrangular, with thick walls reinforced by inclined buttresses. The entrance is through a simple round arch, inviting one to descend into the interior. The ensemble is topped by a dome roof, which has a small lantern at its apex, allowing light to enter.

A Historic Landmark

Probably built in the second half of the 16th century, the fountain had an essentially hydraulic function from its origin, serving as a public fountain. Over the centuries, it ceased to have this primary practical function, and today it is recognized mainly for its historical and cultural value, as a testament to Évora's old water supply network. In the late 19th century, the fountain underwent repair works, promoted at the time by the Viscount of Esperança.

The Latin Inscription

On the fountain's facade, above the entrance arch, there is a plaque or cartouche with a Latin inscription. The text, "FLECTE GENU; ENSIGNUM, PER QUID VIS VICTA TIRANI / ANTIQUI: AT Que. EREBI CONCIDIT IMPERIUM HOC TU SIVE PIUS FRONTEM, SIVE PECTORA SIGNE / NEC LEMURUM INSIDIAS, SPETRAQUE VANA TIME.", has a religious and symbolic character. Part of the message invites one to "Bend the knee" and refers to the sign by which the ancient tyrannical power and the empire of Erebus (a reference to the underworld) were vanquished. It further suggests that, by making the sign (of the cross) on the forehead or chest, one should not fear ambushes or vain phantoms. This inscription adds a layer of cultural and spiritual meaning to the site.

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