fountain · Tiradentes, MG
Chafariz de São José
Built in 1749 at the initiative of the town council, it has three spouts with carved masks, a basin, a washing tank and a trough for animals. The Baroque facade bears the Portuguese coat of arms, and the complex has been protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) since 1949.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Chafariz de São José
The Chafariz de São José (fountain) is one of the best-known monuments in Tiradentes. Built in 1749 at the initiative of the town council, it supplied the old village with water from a nearby spring, carried by a stone aqueduct.
At the front are the three spouts, coming out of masks carved in stone, where people fetched drinking water. On one side was the horse trough; on the other, the tank where clothes were washed. The Baroque facade bears the Portuguese coat of arms, and the complex is protected as a heritage site.
A popular tradition says each spout stands for something: health, love and money. Next to the fountain begins the Bosque da Mãe d'Água trail, a short walk through the woods, following the old stone aqueduct to the spring.
It is a quick, free and easy stop, good for all ages.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Fifteen minutes is enough to see the fountain; if you want to do the Bosque da Mãe d'Água trail, allow a little more time.
Best time
In the morning, with fewer people around; from April to September it rains less in the region.
How to get there
It is in the historic center of Tiradentes and can be reached on foot from Largo das Forras, along stone streets.
Tip
Take the chance to do the short trail through the Bosque da Mãe d'Água (woods), which starts at the fountain and follows the colonial aqueduct.
A look at the place
Chafariz de São José in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Chafariz de São José
Do I have to pay to see the Chafariz de São José?
No, it is a public monument and the visit is free.
When was the Chafariz de São José built?
In 1749, at the initiative of the town council, to supply the village with water.
What do the fountain's three spouts mean?
A popular tradition says they stand for health, love and money.
Which trail starts at the Chafariz de São José?
The Bosque da Mãe d'Água trail, a short walk through the woods that follows the old stone aqueduct to the spring.