Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain
District: Lisboa > Sintra > Massamá > Quinta de Santo António da Barôta
Massamá Fountain is located in the center of the town, in the Quinta de Santo António da Barôta area, within the municipality of Sintra. Situated in an urban and flat area, the fountain stands out next to a crossroads of main roads, on Rua Direita de Massamá. It is surrounded by a wide public walkway, adorned with Portuguese pavement, creating an inviting environment for a break and observation of local life.
This fountain is a symbol and an integral part of Massamá's history, being one of its most representative elements. The very name of the locality, Massamá, has origins in the Arabic toponym "Mactamã", which translates as "place where good water is taken" or "spring". Thus, the fountain is not just a structure, but a living link to the region's past and its primordial connection to water.
Inaugurated in 1863, at the initiative of the then Ministry of Public Works, its centennial presence is a source of pride for the community. A commemorative plaque, dated 1963 and placed by the population, bears a quatrain that expresses this sentiment: "This centennial fountain / Many secrets it holds / And fulfilling its destiny / Is the pride of this land".
Built in limestone masonry, the Massamá Fountain presents a classic aesthetic, enhanced by its white and blue painted plasterwork. The main body is formed by a rectilinear backrest, flanked by curved wings that integrate into continuous benches. These benches, once places of rest and support for the containers of those who came to fetch water, still invite a moment of repose today.
On the backrest, two spouts in the shape of a fleuron emerge, pouring water into a simple rectangular tank. It is also possible to note a gravestone engraved with its construction date and another with the inscription "NO CAR WASHING ALLOWED", indicating its public function and rules of use. A curiosity that attracts visitors' attention is the presence of small colorful fish inhabiting the fountain's tank.
Despite its historical and aesthetic value, and its original function as a water supply source, it is crucial to know that the water from Massamá Fountain is not suitable for human consumption. This condition results from the progressive urbanization of the surrounding areas over time, which has compromised the purity of its springs. The fountain remains fully functional, offering a relevant scenic and cultural element, but not for consumption purposes.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.75676344, -9.2748099
Coordinates DMS: 38°45'24.3"N 09°16'29.3"W
On-duty Pharmacy Massamá
