Barbacena Fountain / Our Lady of Nazareth Fountain

Category: Civil Architecture > Fountain

District: Portalegre > Elvas > Barbacena > Barbacena e Vila Fernando

Location

The Barbacena Fountain, also known by its complementary designation as the Fountain of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, is harmoniously integrated into the picturesque locality of Barbacena. Situated in the municipality of Elvas, district of Portalegre, this parish is part of the vast and captivating landscape of Alentejo. The fountain occupies a central position in the urban fabric of the village, being easily accessible and constituting a historical landmark in the heart of this community, reflecting its importance in the daily lives of its inhabitants over the centuries.

A Legacy of Water and Community

This fountain is a testament to the fundamental importance that water held for rural communities in the past. Presumably erected in the 18th century, it served as the main public water supply for the residents of Barbacena, essential for their daily needs, from domestic consumption to watering livestock. Its construction not only responded to a vital necessity but also created a meeting and social gathering point, where the social life of the village unfolded.

The name "Nossa Senhora da Nazaré" accompanying the fountain's name suggests a possible religious dedication, an act of devotion or gratitude, or even an invocation of protection over the source of life that sprang forth there, conferring upon it a cultural and spiritual value that transcends its mere practical function.

Architectural and Functional Features

The Barbacena Fountain stands out for its robust and functional architecture, typical of Alentejo fountains of its time. Constructed predominantly from marble and masonry, it features a sober yet solid design, which has integrated perfectly into the local landscape and resisted the passage of time. The body of the fountain generally consists of a central structure from which the spouts emerge, through which the water flowed, emptying into an adjacent tank or reservoir.

This simple yet effective configuration allowed for easy water collection, reflecting practical engineering and the care taken in designing essential public infrastructure. Its durability and formal simplicity are characteristics that make it an illustrative example of public works serving the population, marking the landscape with its discreet yet significant presence.

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