Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain
District: Guarda > Sabugal > Sortelha
Located in the charming village of Sortelha, in the municipality of Sabugal, the Fonte da Azenha is discreetly integrated into the urban fabric of the village. Its presence contributes to the serene and timeless atmosphere that characterises Sortelha, inviting a moment of pause while exploring the historic corners of the village.
It is positioned in a location that allows observing the harmony between human construction and the natural environment, typical of this Beira Interior region.
The Fonte da Azenha stands out for its constructive simplicity and its integration into the natural environment. It is characterised by a sober-lined backrest, topped by a discreet cornice that gives it a touch of traditional elegance, without excesses.
Water gushes from a channel-shaped spout, falling into a rectangular tank carefully carved into the rock. This detail reveals a construction technique that respects and leverages the geological elements of the site, underlining the deep relationship between popular architecture and the natural resources available over the centuries.
Over time, fountains like the Fonte da Azenha played a central role in community life, serving as a water supply point and, at times, a meeting place for inhabitants. Its existence is a testament to the importance of water for the subsistence and development of villages.
Today, although its primary function may have evolved, it remains an element of great heritage value. It is a place that invites reflection, where one can appreciate the quietness and the sound of water, offering a glimpse into the daily life of yesteryear and the resilience of Sortelha's traditions.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.3290466875, -7.2155932
Coordinates DMS: 40°19'44.6"N 07°12'56.1"W