Marvel at The Fountain of Beauty. Its elegant white marble gleams in the Barcelona sun. This isn’t just any fountain. It’s a testament to ingenuity and a fascinating chapter in Barcelona’s history.
The Fountain of Beauty stands in Pla de Palau. It was unveiled on June 1 1856. This magnificent work celebrates Jose Bernaldo de Quiros the Marquis de Campo Sagrado. He was instrumental in bringing water to the city during a severe drought. The Marquis’s coat of arms is proudly displayed. The inscription reads “After God the house of Quiros.”
The fountain’s design is credited to architect Francesc Daniel Molina. The statues were sculpted by the Baratta brothers Italian marble workers residing in Barcelona at the time. Four statues represent Catalonia’s four provinces. Four lion heads spout water symbolizing the Llobregat Ter Segre and Ebro rivers.
The central figure is the namesake the Catalan genius. Initially it was depicted nude. Soon after its unveiling women taking photos prompted the bishop to intervene. The statue was hastily clothed a loincloth concealing its nudity.
After the Civil War sculptor Frederic Mares repaired the fountain. He replaced broken wings feet hands and a palm star. He retained the modest loincloth covering. In the mid-eighties this was removed. The mutilated genius was left only with testicles. A resin penis a rather unfortunate addition lasted until 2007. A rigorous restoration from 2007 to 2008 rectified this. The team meticulously restored it using old photographs. The new marble pieces are a testament to the dedication of the restorers. They faithfully recreated the original appearance.
The Fountain of Beauty’s history is rich with stories of artistic creation censorship and meticulous restoration. It’s a captivating example of Barcelona’s enduring spirit. Each element from its marble to its sculptures holds a piece of the city’s past. It is truly a treasure to behold.