Ever wondered how Lisbon quenched its thirst centuries ago? Here stands the Chafariz da Rua do Arco a São Mamede. It is a testament to the city’s ingenious water management. This small fountain has a big story to tell.
The Chafariz da Rua do Arco a São Mamede is not just a pretty face. It represents a crucial chapter in Lisbon’s history. Its construction was ordered on June 12 1805. The Direção das Águas Livres oversaw it. Honorato José Correia de Macedo e Sá designed it. He was influenced by Reinaldo Manuel dos Santos. Reinaldo’s style linked fountains to the aqueduct system.
This fountain gets its water from the Galeria da Esperança. It also uses water from the Água Livre. The Casa do Registo das Amoreiras plays a part too.
Look closely at the Chafariz da Rua do Arco a São Mamede. It is made entirely of limestone masonry. Pilasters frame its small backrest. These pilasters create a border for two decorated panels. Two spouts once poured water into symmetrical tanks. These tanks had a quadrangular shape.
In 1851 the Chafariz da Rua do Arco a São Mamede was chafariz number 12. It had two spouts. Two tanks served the public. Two water carrier companies operated here. They had two foremen and 66 water carriers. One “ligeiro” was also on staff.
The street’s name has evolved over time. It was once simply Rua do Arco. This was due to one of the 127 arches of the Aqueduto das Águas Livres. In 1953 São Mamede was added to the name. This was a decision by the Lisbon Municipal Toponymy Commission. Luís Pastor de Macedo approved it.
The Aqueduto das Águas Livres began supplying water to Lisbon in 1748. It increased the daily water volume per citizen. It rose from 6 to 15 liters.
Restoration is in progress. The Empresa Portuguesa das Águas Livres S.A. is working with the city. They aim to restore the fountain’s water supply function. This is part of a larger effort. The goal is to restore all monumental fountains. The project should be completed by 2025.
The Chafariz da Rua do Arco a São Mamede suffered vandalism in 2014. The frontispiece was destroyed. The city is committed to preserving this monument. This fountain is a reminder of Lisbon’s past. It shows how the city valued public water access.