Fonte da Sabuga

## Overview Fonte da Sabuga is a historic public drinking fountain located in the heart of Sintra, Portugal, along Rua Marechal Saldanha — one of the charming narrow streets that wind through this UNESCO World Heritage town. Sintra has long been celebrated for its abundance of natural springs, fed by the moisture-rich microclimate of the Serra de Sintra mountains. The town's many fountains, or *fontes*, have served residents and travelers for centuries, and Fonte da Sabuga is one of these traditional water sources that remains accessible to the public today. Sintra's springs are a product of the region's unique geology: the granite and syenite massif of the Serra de Sintra captures rainfall and Atlantic mist, filtering water through layers of rock before it emerges at various points throughout the town. This geological heritage has made Sintra's water famous since at least the Moorish period, and the town's fountains have historically been important gathering places for locals. Fonte da Sabuga has traditionally been used as a drinking water source by residents and visitors alike, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary and independent testing is always advisable before consumption. ## Directions 1. From the center of Sintra (near the Palácio Nacional de Sintra / National Palace), head along the narrow streets toward Rua Marechal Saldanha. 2. The fountain is located at **R. Marechal Saldanha 23, 2710-631 Sintra**. 3. If arriving by train at Sintra station, it is approximately a 10–15 minute walk uphill into the old town (*Vila Velha*). Follow the main pedestrian route toward the National Palace and continue along Rua Marechal Saldanha. 4. GPS coordinates: **38.7953, -9.3873** *Note: Sintra's old town streets are narrow and mostly pedestrianized. Parking can be difficult, so arriving by train or using local bus services is recommended.* ## What to Expect Fonte da Sabuga is a traditional street-side fountain typical of Sintra's old quarter. Expect a modest stone or tiled fountain structure integrated into the streetscape, consistent with the architectural character of the surrounding historic buildings. The fountain is publicly accessible and located along a walkable street in the heart of the town. Sintra's old town is a popular tourist destination, so the area around the fountain is likely to be busy, especially during peak season (spring and summer). The surrounding streets are lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings, making a visit to the fountain easy to combine with broader exploration of Sintra's many attractions — including the National Palace, the Moorish Castle, and the Pena Palace. The water flow at traditional Sintra fountains is typically continuous, though seasonal variation is possible. Visitors have historically used the town's public fountains to fill water bottles while exploring the hilly terrain. As always, the water has not been independently verified for safety, so visitors should exercise their own judgment regarding consumption.