Luminous Fountain

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Leiria > Leiria > Leiria

Location

The Luminous Fountain is located in Leiria, in an urban area designated as Bairro dos Anjos. It is situated at a central point of the city, serving as a distinctive element in the Rocio, an urban space of relevance to city life. Its position grants it a prominent role in the landscape of Leiria's city center.

A Historical Legacy

The Luminous Fountain was erected around 1940, integrated into the celebrations alluding to the foundation and restoration of Portugal's independence. Its architectural design is attributed to Ernesto Korrodi, a figure with impact on Leiria's urban planning. The site where the fountain stands has a deep history, having once been the stage for significant structures, such as the Convent and Church of Santana and the D. Maria II Theatre. The presence of the fountain at this central point of the city, built during challenging times, also symbolizes Leiria's capacity for resilience and determination.

The Sculpture and its Symbolism

One of the most striking features of the fountain is its sculptural ensemble, a creation by artist Lagoa Henriques, added to the site around 1978. This work features bronze figures, including two children evoking innocence, a woman carrying fruits symbolizing fertility, and another with fish, representing abundance. At the highest point, the statue of Neptune, a figure from Roman mythology associated with the seas, complements the ensemble. These symbolic representations pay homage to the Lis and Lena rivers, the two waterways that embrace Leiria and converge north of the city, connecting the fountain to the local geographical essence.

The Nighttime Splendor

The Luminous Fountain, as its name suggests, takes on a particular dimension at nightfall. It is then that the multicolored lights switch on, transforming the fountain into a point of visual attraction. The water jets, in harmony with the lighting, create a dynamic and engaging spectacle. This interplay of light and water gives the fountain a unique glow, making it a point of contemplation and a striking scenic element in Leiria's nocturnal urban landscape.

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