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Spring · Araxá, MG
Dona Beja Fountain
Radioactive water spring of the Barreiro, in a stylized grotto with white and blue tiles depicting Dona Beja’s legendary baths and, in front, a cascade of shower heads. From the top of the stairs you can see the lake.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Dona Beja Fountain
The Fonte Dona Beja is the original landmark for the exploitation of Barreiro's waters in Araxá. There a radioactive mineral water springs from between volcanic rocks, in a stylized grotto shaped like an emanatory. The two-story building was designed in the 1940s by engineer-architect Raphael Hardy Filho, from the team of architect Luiz Signorelli.
The hand-painted white and blue tiles depict Dona Beja’s baths, who, according to local tradition, came to these waters to tend to her beauty. In front of the fountain, a set of showers falls in cascades, and from the top of the stairs there is a view of the lake and the Barreiro thermal complex. The water can be tasted on site.
Dona Beja, born Ana Jacinta de São José, arrived in Araxá in 1805 and became one of the best-known figures in Minas history in the 19th century. Her life, full of legends, became a book and a soap opera and brought fame to the city.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes at the fountain and the lookout; more time if combined with a walk through the Barreiro park.
Best time
During the day, within the park's visiting hours. In the morning the path through the woods is cooler and the fountain attracts fewer people.
How to get there
It is located inside the Barreiro Complex, about 5 km from Araxá's center. From the parking lot you follow the park paths on foot, with signs indicating the fountain; there is a section with stairs.
Tip
Bring a bottle to fill at the fountain. The floor near the showers often stays wet: wear footwear with good grip.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Dona Beja Fountain
What is the Fonte Dona Beja?
It is the radioactive mineral spring of the Barreiro Complex in Araxá, housed in a 1940s building decorated with tiles that depict Dona Beja's baths.
Can you drink the water from Fonte Dona Beja?
The water is offered to visitors at the fountain itself. Follow the site's guidance about consumption.
Where is the Fonte Dona Beja located?
Inside the Barreiro Complex, about 5 km from Araxá's center, on a park slope, a short walk from the lake.