Fountain of the Virtues, Public fountain in Miragaia, Porto, Portugal
The Fountain of the Virtues is a public granite fountain in Miragaia with a high central backrest supported by two pilasters, crowned with a cornice bearing a royal coat of arms and Renaissance faces. Its structure was designed to collect water from unused springs in the area and provide the Porto community with drinking water.
Porto's city council ordered its construction in 1619, initially calling it Fonte do Rio Frio because of its proximity to the river. It was later renamed and remained essential infrastructure for the city's water supply for centuries.
The name reflects local belief that the water held healing powers and was connected to the Virgin Mary. This understanding shaped how residents viewed and valued this location across generations.
The fountain sits in an older part of Porto where narrow streets offer easier access in early morning or late afternoon. It helps to spend time exploring the area and enjoying the surroundings along with nearby historical sites.
The fountain was originally flanked by stone benches along its tank and pathway, creating a social gathering space in the 17th century. This arrangement stood beside a former Jewish cemetery, showing its importance to multiple communities.
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