Santo António Tank

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Alcântara > Tapada da Ajuda

Location

Located in Tapada da Ajuda, in Alcântara, Lisbon municipality, the Tanque de Santo António is situated in a vast green area that once served agricultural and leisure purposes. Its position offers a tranquil environment and a refuge from the urban hustle, allowing for an experience of contact with nature within the city.

The Tapada da Ajuda, where the tank is located, is a prime area for relaxing walks, where one can enjoy fresh air and a serene landscape. The presence of the tank adds an element of contemplation and historical interest to this green space.

Memory and Function

This body of water has a history linked to the traditions and daily life of local communities. In the past, the Tanque de Santo António was a central point for inhabitants, playing a practical role in daily life. It was a place where laundry was done, a social and essential task for families of the time.

Adjacent to the tank, there was a fountain that provided potable water. This fountain was vital, serving both people who passed by or worked there, as well as animals, which found a watering point there. The tank and the fountain were thus a small functional oasis in the landscape of Tapada da Ajuda.

The Toponym

The name "Tanque de Santo António" evokes Lisbon's devotion and cultural heritage towards Saint Anthony, a figure of great relevance in the city. The full designation of the place, sometimes referred to as "do Rego," indicates the existence of a rego, meaning a ditch or water channel, which ran in its vicinity.

This "rego" was likely a channel for water drainage or transport, a common element in semi-rural and agricultural landscapes, which contributed to the functionality of the tank and fountain. The toponym, therefore, connects the natural element of water with popular faith, marking the historical and symbolic importance of this corner of Alcântara.

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