Fuente de la plaza de Santa Maria de Guadalupe

## Overview The Fuente de la Plaza de Santa María de Guadalupe is a historic public drinking fountain located in the heart of one of Spain's most celebrated pilgrimage towns. Situated in the Plaza de Santa María de Guadalupe in the province of Cáceres, Extremadura, this fountain stands in the shadow of the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. The monastery, founded in the 14th century, has drawn pilgrims, royalty, and travelers for over 600 years, and the plaza fountain has long served as a refreshment point for those arriving in this storied mountain village. Guadalupe sits nestled in the Sierra de Villuercas at roughly 640 meters above sea level, and the region's geology — predominantly slate and quartzite formations — naturally filters the water that feeds local springs and fountains. The town's water sources have historically been reported as clean and refreshing, benefiting from the area's relatively pristine mountain environment. The fountain is a public fixture in the main square, easily accessible and traditionally used by locals and visitors alike. As with any public water source, conditions may vary over time, and the water has historically been used as a drinking water source by the community. ## Directions 1. **From Madrid (approximately 225 km):** Take the A-5 motorway southwest toward Badajoz. Exit onto the EX-118 heading south toward Guadalupe, following signs for the town. 2. **From Trujillo (approximately 80 km):** Head east on the EX-208, then follow the EX-118 south through the Sierra de Villuercas into Guadalupe. 3. **Once in Guadalupe:** Navigate toward the center of town. The Plaza de Santa María de Guadalupe is the main square, directly in front of the Royal Monastery's grand façade. The fountain is located within the plaza itself. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 39.4521, -5.3273 — these will bring you directly to the plaza area. Parking can be limited in the narrow streets of the old town; look for designated parking areas on the outskirts and walk in. ## What to Expect The Plaza de Santa María de Guadalupe is the social and architectural centerpiece of the village. The fountain sits in an open, paved square framed by traditional Extremaduran architecture — whitewashed buildings with wooden balconies and terracotta roofs — with the imposing Gothic-Mudéjar monastery as its dramatic backdrop. The fountain is publicly accessible at all times. Visitors will find a charming, well-maintained square that is lively during the day, especially on weekends and during local festivals such as the Fiesta de la Hispanidad in October, when Guadalupe celebrates its deep connection to Spanish history and the Americas. The surrounding village offers cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and traditional restaurants serving Extremaduran cuisine. The monastery itself is open for guided tours and houses a remarkable collection of art, including works by Zurbarán and El Greco. Note that Guadalupe can be warm in summer months (July–August temperatures often exceed 35°C), so the fountain is especially welcome during a midday visit. Winters are mild but can be rainy, which keeps the local water sources well-fed.