Fountain of São Domingos de Benfica

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Sítio do Barcal

Location

Located in the parish of São Domingos de Benfica, in Lisbon, this fountain is integrated into the wall that delimits an old estate, in Sítio do Barcal. Its position, lower than the main road and separated by a garden bed and a sidewalk, gives it a distinct atmosphere in the urban space. Facing the northern slope of the Monsanto Forest Park, the fountain offers a tranquil contemplation point, harmonizing historical architecture with the proximity of nature. It is a striking presence and a landmark in the area.

A Common Story of Water and Privilege

The construction of the Chafariz de São Domingos de Benfica dates back to the 18th century, between 1760 and 1770, on the initiative of Gerard Devisme, an influential English merchant and owner of a vast estate in the area. Originally, the fountain was part of a water supply project for his property. However, due to its proximity to the vital Águas Livres Aqueduct, the work faced royal restrictions. It was the intervention of Queen Maria I, in 1784, that allowed its progression, with the condition that the water should also be made available for public use. This royal agreement ensured that the fountain not only served the estate but also became a publicly accessible asset, directly connected to the Aqueduct's network. In 1851, the ownership of the water passed to Infanta Maria Isabel, and later, in the mid-20th century, the fountain began to be supplied by the municipal public network.

Late Baroque Aesthetics and Artistic Details

The Chafariz de São Domingos de Benfica is an example of late Baroque architecture, revealing itself in an elaborate facade that stands out from the wall in which it is set. Its structure consists of a three-part espaldar in limestone masonry, richly decorated with pilasters, cornices, and platibands that give it visual rhythm. In the central panel, two symmetrically sculpted dolphins serve as spouts, pouring water into a rectangular tank with notched corners and a wavy edge. Above these, a niche and a rectangular cartouche complete the composition, which is topped by a pyramidal obelisk and acroteria adorned with urns and balls. The side panels, with large projecting cushions, include attached stone benches, inviting rest and appreciation of this historical architectural element. The plastered and painted masonry ensemble, with its worked stone elements, gives it a solid and elegant presence.

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