Lions Fountain

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Centro Histórico

Location

The Fountain of the Lions (Fonte dos Leões) is located in Gomes Teixeira Square, one of the most emblematic and bustling spaces in the heart of Porto's Historic Centre. Its central position, in a landscaped square, makes it a landmark and a pleasant spot for a break. It stands in front of an imposing historic building, the Rectory of the University of Porto, contributing to the academic and cultural atmosphere of the surrounding area.

Origin and Purpose

This remarkable aquatic monument was commissioned by the Porto Water Company, having been inaugurated and put into operation in 1886. Its construction represented a significant milestone for the city, integrating into a broader project to improve Porto's drinking water supply system, a crucial step for public health at the time. It stands out as one of the few fountains in the city not originally built in Portugal, showcasing artistic and technical influence from abroad.

In addition to its primary function of supplying water, the fountain also played a vital role in ventilating and oxygenating the pipes, as well as relieving network pressure. Although the official name is Gomes Teixeira Square, the fountain's striking presence led to the square being affectionately known and identified by many as Praça dos Leões (Lions' Square).

Aesthetics and Symbolism

The Fountain of the Lions is an example of neoclassical architecture, built predominantly from granite and bronze. Its design includes an octagonal basin at the base, with rounded edges, from which a central column rises, supporting two superimposed and tiered circular bowls.

The most iconic elements are the four majestic winged bronze lions, positioned around the basin and facing the cardinal points. These imposing sculptures, which give the fountain its name, lend a unique character to the monument and are seen as a symbol of the strength and resilience of the city of Porto. The fountain, with its water jets and ornamental details including vegetal friezes, offers a harmonious image and is a popular spot for capturing moments.

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