Mineral Water Fountains (300 Local Fountains)

Castelo de Vide has long been known for its water, and the town's many public fountains are one of the first things a visitor notices. The town stands on the slopes of the Serra de São Mamede, in a landscape where granite and limestone hold springs, and the water that comes out of them is clear, cool, and lightly mineral. Over centuries the people of the town built fountains, troughs, and washing places at the springs, and many of them are still in use. Local lore claims that there are around three hundred of them, from small spouts in walls to grand stone basins, and while the figure is hard to check, it is true that you rarely walk more than a few steps in the old town without passing one.

The water has a reputation for purity and a pleasant, light taste, and it has been used for generations for drinking and for health. Locals fill bottles and jugs at the fountains, and visitors are encouraged to taste. The town was also a spa in the past, with hot and cold baths and a tradition of cures. Mineral water from the area is bottled and sold across the region. This reputation draws people to the town for its fresh water as well as for its walls and history.

The best-known fountain is the Fonte da Vila, a Renaissance fountain in the main square, the Praça D. Pedro V, where it stands among the town hall, the parish church, and cafés. Its stone basin, columns, and carved details date from the 16th century, and its sound and shade make it the natural centre of the town. Other fountains are scattered through the squares and lanes, often in the shade of trees, and in the Jewish quarter and the medieval streets near the castle they are set into old walls, with worn stone and iron spouts. In summer they are cool places to stop, and the sound of running water is a constant background.

A walk around the fountains is a pleasant way to see the town. There is no fixed route, and a map from the tourist office can help, but wandering is equally rewarding. Use only fountains marked as drinking water, and take care on slippery stone.

The fountains suit walkers, photographers, and those who enjoy small details. Bring a bottle, and combine the walk with the castle, the synagogue, and the Jewish quarter.