Fountain of the Pipes

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Lisboa > Torres Vedras > Torres Vedras > Santa Maria, São Pedro e Matacães

Location

The Chafariz dos Canos (Fountain of the Pipes) is located in the heart of the city of Torres Vedras, within the union of parishes of Santa Maria, São Pedro, and Matacães. It is integrated into the historic center, flanked by residential buildings and surrounded by small landscaped flowerbeds that highlight it in the urban space. Its position is strategic, formerly near one of the ancient gates of the medieval town, a place where vestiges of the original wall can still be observed today, some of which are preserved under protection. Its presence is a prominent landmark in this area of the city.

Historical Significance

Considered one of the oldest fountains in Portugal, the Chafariz dos Canos has a history dating back at least to the year 1331, the date of its first documented reference. Its historical importance is recognized by its classification as a National Monument since 1910. Over the centuries, the fountain has been subject to significant interventions; its most notable reconstruction occurred in 1561, prompted by Infanta D. Maria, daughter of D. Manuel I. Later, in 1831, it benefited from new restoration works that contributed to its preservation, maintaining it as a living memory of the city's past.

Architectural Details

This imposing fountain features a distinct Gothic style, although it incorporates elements from later interventions. It stands out for its covered pavilion, equipped with an elegant cross-ribbed vault, whose ribs rest on conical corbels. The facade displays ogival arches, characteristic of Gothic style, and is topped by pinnacles and chamfered battlements. Inside, a rectangular tank is adorned by two Baroque-style spouts, which once poured the water that supplied the community. Columns decorated with vegetal motifs and shields with the Arms of Portugal are also observed, complementing the richness of its design.

A Vital Water Source

Historically, the Chafariz dos Canos played a central role in the daily life of Torres Vedras. It served not only the local population but also muleteers and other travelers passing through the city, being an essential water supply point. Its design, with five faces and multiple access arches, is cited as an ingenious solution to facilitate the flow of people and animals, avoiding crowding at a time when water was a resource of limited access and vital importance. This functionality, combined with its aesthetics, gives it a symbolic value that transcends its original function.

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