Imagine the year is 1857. What purpose did this fountain serve for the people of Carnide? This is the Chafariz de Carnide. It is also known as the Chafariz do Malvar. This beautiful fountain stands before you. It is a testament to a time when public water sources were vital for daily life.
The Chafariz de Carnide is located in Largo do Malvar. It reflects an elegance of form. It combines undulating surfaces. These blend with the straight lines of its design. The fountain is made of limestone masonry. Its rectangular shape features a square tank. This tank has a prominent base. It also has salient edges.
Look closer at the base. Notice the small holes? They allowed excess water to drain. The tank is not very deep. Its corners are subtly curved. In the center is a base topped by a plinth. These elements are parallelepipedal.
On the east and west faces are circular spouts. They are protected by iron plates. Iron pipes serve as the water source. Below each spout are two iron supports. People placed their vessels on these to collect water.
Above the plinth is a concave support. It holds a Tuscan pillar. This pillar is crowned with a pyramidal pinnacle. It rests on a base. On the east face of the pinnacle is an inscription. It reads: “CAMARA MUNICIPAL DE BELEM 1857”. This inscription tells us about the fountain’s origins. The Câmara Municipal de Belém commissioned it.
The Largo do Malvar is paved with basalt. A public sidewalk surrounds the square. It is made of Portuguese cobblestone. On the upper side of the square, there is a retaining wall. It is shaped like an inverted U. The wall is made of plastered masonry. At each end are friars, stone markers. On the left, a step provides access to the elevated sidewalk. Two large trees stand near this wall.
Originally, the Chafariz de Carnide served a hydraulic function. It provided water to the public. People used it for drinking. Animals used it as a watering trough. Locals also used it to wash clothes.
Today, the Chafariz de Carnide serves a cultural purpose. It is a historic and cultural landmark. It is a reminder of Carnide’s past. The fountain’s design suggests obelisk fountains. Despite its simple appearance, it shows an elegance of form.
In 1952 and 1961, the fountain was captured in photographs. These photos show its historical context. They highlight its importance to the community. The fountain has two metal-lined spouts on opposite sides. One of the spouts still has its metal support. This was used to hold containers while collecting water.
The Chafariz de Carnide stands as a proud monument. It reflects the area’s history. It has been a focal point. It has served practical needs. It has offered aesthetic pleasure. It continues to connect us to the past. It enriches our understanding of Lisbon’s heritage. In the late 20th century, part of the square was cut off. This made the public road wider. Despite this change, the fountain remains. It stands as a testament to time.