Is it just me or does this old fountain exude history? We are standing in front of the Chafariz das Terras. It is more than just a water source. This fountain is a testament to Lisbon’s enduring connection to its water supply.
Let’s dive into the story of this monument. The Chafariz das Terras is an urban fountain. It is attached to a section of the Aqueduto das Águas Livres. This aqueduct played a vital role in Lisbon’s water distribution. The fountain’s design is simple. It features a rectangular shape flanked by Tuscan pilasters. These are topped with pyramidal pinnacles. The city’s arms are proudly displayed at the top.
Look closely and you will spot three spouts. They pour water into two tanks. Any overflow goes into a frontal basin. This basin once served as a washing area. There was also a drinking trough for animals. The Chafariz das Terras shares similarities with other fountains. Namely, the Chafarizes de Entrecampos and do Intendente.
The fountain’s structure is a mix of materials. It combines masonry and limestone. Take note of the rectangular design. It sits on a two-stepped platform with rounded corners. The facades feature a prominent base. They are finished with a frieze and cornice. A small parapet tops the structure. Pyramidal pinnacles adorn the corners. The city’s arms are displayed in a central medallion.
The main facade is partially plastered. The lower two-thirds showcase stonework. Pilasters frame the facade. You can see a rectangular inscription. It reads “CML 1867”. This indicates a restoration by the Lisbon Municipal Chamber. Three spouts emerge from the stonework. Two are shaped like flowers. One is disc-shaped. The spouts pour water into two rectangular tanks. Iron plates reinforce these tanks.
On the left side, a blocked window sits above a trough. This trough with curved edges served as a washbasin. The right side features a doorway. It is also currently blocked. In front of the fountain is another rectangular tank. This one has a small backdrop. A small trough to the side served as a drinking fountain for animals.
The Chafariz das Terras has been a Monumento Nacional since 2002. It is part of a protected zone. The zone includes several historical sites. Among them are the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga and the Igreja de São Francisco de Paula.
Originally, the Chafariz das Terras was built in the 18th or 19th century. The aqueduct supplied water to the Chafariz das Janelas Verdes. In 1783, Maria Joaquina de Vilhena received the rights to excess water. In 1791, they moved the fountain slightly. It was moved a little higher than its current location. It was relocated to its present location in 1812. By 1851, the excess water flowed into a laundry tank. Significant renovations took place in 1867. The Lisbon Municipal Chamber sponsored the expansion. New tanks were also built.
Unfortunately, in 1949, part of the Aqueduto das Janelas Verdes was demolished. This was to make way for the Avenida Infante Santo. This demolition cut off the Chafariz das Terras’ water supply. In 1993, a request was made to repair the fountain.
Today, the Chafariz das Terras stands as a cultural landmark. It is a reminder of Lisbon’s history. It is a testament to the city’s ingenuity in water management. As we conclude our visit, take one last look. Reflect on the stories this fountain could tell.