Taipas Spring

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Virtudes

Location

Located in the Virtudes area, in the heart of Porto city, the Taipas Fountain offers a discreet point of interest for those exploring the area. It is situated in a setting that invites discovery, nestled within an urban context yet possessing its own serene atmosphere.

Its presence complements the local landscape, allowing a moment of pause for those traversing the streets and nooks of this part of the city.

Memory and Nomenclature

The Taipas Fountain carries with it a history of names, reflecting its past and popular perceptions of its peculiarities. In bygone times, it was commonly known as "Fonte dos Beiços" (Fountain of Lips), a designation that echoed a particular belief about its waters.

Other names, such as "Fonte do Vale" (Valley Fountain), were also associated with this spot over time, before the current designation of Taipas Fountain became established, which persists to this day and identifies it in this corner of the city.

Beliefs and Attributed Properties

One of the most curious aspects of the Taipas Fountain lies in the beliefs that once surrounded its waters. Legend had it that this fountain possessed the natural ability to cure certain ailments, particularly lip inflammations and spleen problems.

Ancient accounts, collected in 18th-century parish documents, reported the fame of these properties. It is said that people with lip ailments, upon accidentally washing them in the fountain, experienced unexpected improvement, contributing to the mystique that enveloped this place.

Environment and Comfort

Over time, the area surrounding the Taipas Fountain was designed to welcome its visitors. The site was intervened to provide an inviting and tranquil environment, ideal for a stop and a moment of rest.

It is equipped with elements that allow visitors to enjoy a moment of pause, such as stone benches and tables. There is also some natural shade, which contributes to the comfort of those seeking a peaceful refuge amidst the urban dynamic.

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