Fountain of the Maidens

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Évora > Évora > Évora > São Mamede, Sé, São Pedro e Santo Antão

Location

The Chafariz das Donzelas is located in Évora, situated within the area encompassing the parishes of São Mamede, Sé, São Pedro, and Santo Antão. It is located in a quieter area of the city, offering a serene environment, slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the historic center. Its location allows visitors to observe a different facet of Évora, where daily life unfolds in harmony with elements of great heritage value.

Origin and Historical Function

This fountain is a testament to the importance of water supply in Évora, having been built in the 16th century. Its construction is intrinsically linked to the imposing Aqueduto da Água de Prata, a remarkable work that ensured the transport of water to the city. The Chafariz das Donzelas served as one of the distribution points where inhabitants collected essential water for their daily lives, playing a vital role in the life of the Évora community for centuries.

Simple and Enduring Architecture

The Chafariz das Donzelas exhibits architecture with simple and robust lines, characteristic of the Portuguese Renaissance period. Constructed from stone, it presents a functional structure, with spouts from which the water flowed. Although devoid of grand ornamentation, its design reflects the mastery and practicality of the engineering of the time, being an excellent example of functionality transformed into a lasting urban element. Its sobriety invites contemplation of its original purpose and its resistance to time.

A Water Legacy

Visiting the Chafariz das Donzelas is to delve into an essential part of Évora's history, understanding how the city secured a resource as fundamental as water. This site symbolizes the ingenious supply network that served the population throughout the centuries. The fountain is not just a stone structure; it is a link to the city's water history, representing the effort and intelligence employed in managing natural resources for the well-being of its inhabitants.

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