New Fountain

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Portalegre > Portalegre > Portalegre > Sé e São Lourenço

What Is Fonte Nova?

Fonte Nova is a historical landmark in the heart of Portalegre. It is a civil architecture construction, classified as a fountain, which served an essential purpose in the city's past life.

A Look Through History

Built in the 18th century, more precisely in 1785, Fonte Nova was an important project for supplying drinking water to the population of Portalegre at a time when distribution systems like today's did not exist. It was erected by order of the then Corregedor Luís de Melo da Cunha.

Architectural Features

The fountain features a granite ashlar structure, with a design that combines functionality with some simplicity. It is composed of a main tank for water collection and several spouts from which the water flowed. Although it lacks complex decorative elements, its solidity and design are representative of the public architecture of its time.

Function and Relevance

For decades, Fonte Nova was a central point for the daily lives of the inhabitants. It was here that people went to fetch water for their homes. In addition to its practical function, it also served as a meeting and socialising place, being an essential element in the urban dynamic of the old city.

Why Visit?

Visiting Fonte Nova offers an opportunity to connect with Portalegre's past and understand what life was like before modern conveniences. It is a physical testament to the history of water supply in the city and a good example of utilitarian civil architecture from the 18th century. It integrates into the historical environment of the city center, being a point of interest to consider when exploring the area.

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