Monumental Fountain of Alameda

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Areeiro

Location

Situated on the vast Alameda Dom Afonso Henriques, in Areeiro, Lisbon, this imposing fountain emerges as a visual landmark in the area. Its central positioning on the promenade offers ample surrounding space, inviting a pause and quiet observation within the urban environment of the Portuguese capital.

A Historical Tribute

Locally known as the Luminous Fountain, this structure was erected with an essential purpose: to celebrate the arrival and regularity of the water supply to the eastern part of Lisbon. Although its initial conception dates back to 1938, the actual construction and official inauguration of the fountain only took place on May 30, 1948, marking a significant period of infrastructural development in the city.

Architecture and Stylistic Framing

The architectural design of the fountain is the work of brothers Carlos Rebello de Andrade and Guilherme Rebello de Andrade. Its conception falls within the conservative style that marked Portuguese architecture in the 1940s, often referred to as "Português Suave" (Soft Portuguese). This style is characterized by its monumentality and the use of a robust formal language, giving the fountain a solid presence integrated into the public space.

Sculptural Expression

The Monumental Fountain of the Alameda stands out for its rich sculptural composition, which lends depth and meaning to the work. The majestic Caryatids adorning the monument were created by Maximiano Alves. Diogo de Macedo was responsible for the allegorical figures of the Tagus and the Tágides, personifying the Lisbon river and its nymphs, evoking the city's connection to water. The bas-reliefs decorating the side panels are the work of Jorge Barradas, complementing the artistic ensemble with visual narratives.

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