Does the name Font del Bacallà conjure images of a codfish fountain? Well, let’s uncover the story behind this curious name.
The Font del Bacallà is a natural spring nestled in the Collserola mountain range. It sits in the Sant Genís dels Agudells neighborhood of Barcelona. This isn’t just any water source. The Font del Bacallà has a tale to tell.
For centuries, locals whispered about the water’s supposed healing powers. Legend had it that this spring could dissolve anything. The ultimate test? A bacallà or codfish. Put a cod under the water stream. After an hour, only the spine would remain. Hence the name Font del Bacallà stuck.
Imagine Barcelona in the early 20th century. Sundays meant a trip to the Font del Bacallà. Families gathered. They cooked meals over open fires. The Font del Bacallà was more than a water source. It was a social hub.
The Font del Bacallà flows all year. The water emerges from a spout. This spout is beneath a sculpture of a cod’s tail on the front of the fountain. The fountain’s drainage has been altered. Water overflows into an open channel on the circular pavement. Stone walls act as benches offering rest.
The wooden steps to the Font del Bacallà have been replaced with slate stone. These stones mark the area of the Font del Bacallà.
Today, the Font del Bacallà offers a tranquil escape. It’s a place to connect with nature. It is a reminder of local traditions.
Close to the Font del Bacallà, is Can Soler farmhouse. It is also known as Font del Bacallà. The farmhouse got the name from the pond beside it. The pond collects water from the spring. The City Council restored the farmhouse in 1980. Now the farmhouse offers municipal services.
Take a moment to appreciate the Font del Bacallà. The Font del Bacallà is a testament to Barcelona’s blend of nature. It embodies the local lore. It exemplifies the city’s history. The Font del Bacallà stands as a refreshing reminder of Barcelona’s past.