Fountain of Caldas

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa

Location

The Chafariz do Caldas is located in Lisbon, in the Lumiar neighborhood, more precisely in Largo das Caldas. Its setting in a more residential area of the capital offers an authentic and tranquil perspective of the city, away from the busiest tourist routes. This environment allows visitors to observe the local architecture and the daily life of a Lisbon area with its own character, shaped by its history and development over time.

Historical Legacy

With deep roots in Lisbon's water supply history, the Chafariz do Caldas, historically identified by some as Chafariz das Mouras, represents a significant landmark. Its construction, part of the vast Águas Livres project, began in 1813, and it was only in July 1816 that its spouts saw water flowing for the first time. In an era when direct access to water in homes was limited, these public fountains were vital points for the community, serving not only the essential function of providing water but also as daily meeting places. Its presence is a testament to the evolution of Lisbon's urban infrastructure and how the city adapted to the essential needs of its inhabitants throughout the 19th century.

Architectural Features

This fountain displays an aesthetic that reflects its practical function and the prevailing style of its time. Built of stone, its structure is characterized by clean lines and a functional design, exemplifying neoclassicism applied to public utility elements. Although it does not boast grand decorative ornaments, its simplicity and sobriety contribute to the harmony of the surrounding space. The integration of the Chafariz do Caldas into Largo das Caldas is a remarkable example of how civil architecture merges with the urban fabric, keeping alive a portion of the city's collective memory and the daily lives of its former residents.

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