Fountain of King John

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Lisboa > Odivelas > Casal do Privilégio > Barruncho

Location

The King's Fountain (Chafariz D'El Rei) is located in the Barruncho area, specifically in the locality of Casal do Privilégio, belonging to the municipality of Odivelas. It is situated in a landscaped garden space that bears its name, in the urban area of Póvoa de Santo Adrião. Its current position allows for peaceful observation, serving as a visual landmark in the local landscape.

Historical Background

This remarkable fountain was erected in the year 1756. Originally built with robust limestone blocks, its first location was beside a road. Over time, urban dynamics led to its reconfiguration, being rebuilt in 1843. However, its presence in the current location is more recent, dating back to 1983. Due to area redevelopment, the fountain was carefully dismantled and stored before being re-established in the garden that now hosts it, thus preserving a significant part of local history.

Architectural Elements

The King's Fountain (Chafariz D'El Rei) stands out for its visually impactful structure. It features an imposing back panel from which two spouts emerge. These spouts, through which water flowed into a large tank intended to quench the thirst of animals, have the peculiar shape of lucernas. At the center of the composition, an elaborate high-relief captures attention: it depicts an 18th-century caravel, a detail that adds depth and symbolism to the piece.

Legacy and Preservation

Despite its relocations and rebuildings, the King's Fountain (Chafariz D'El Rei) maintains a strong link to its origin. It is noteworthy that the piece still preserves the original 18th-century inscription, a direct testament to its antiquity and historical journey. This inscription is a key element that reinforces the patrimonial value of the fountain, allowing visitors a genuine connection with the region's past.

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