Casa da Água, Water house in Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel, Portugal
Casa da Água is a hexagonal building at the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel with a domed roof topped by a lantern. Inside, marble fountains and stone benches line the walls.
The building was constructed in 1770 under King Jose I to supply water through an aqueduct from Azoia. This structure was part of a larger system serving the sanctuary's pilgrims.
The interior walls display hunting scenes and pilgrimage themes through traditional Portuguese tile work, telling stories connected to the sanctuary's spiritual role.
The building houses two wells, fountains, and tanks positioned both inside and outside the walled garden area. Visiting when weather is clear helps you appreciate the architecture and decorative details throughout the space.
The marble fountain inside features sculptural elements in Bernini's style, showing how Italian artistic influences merged with Portuguese architecture. This surprising blend reflected the royal vision for the sanctuary.
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