Why it is here: a nod to lost orchards

The 'birth' or 'source' of water is more than poetic. Plaza de España stands on ground that was long associated with the fertile market gardens of the old Leganitos quarter, an area watered by abundant streams and a historic spring-fed fountain. By celebrating water so theatrically, the fountain keeps that green, watery memory alive amid a square now ringed by tall buildings. When the plaza was last remodelled, the monument was moved to sit close to the Convent and National Temple of the Discalced Carmelites (the church of Santa Teresa y San José), which now forms a handsome backdrop for photographs.↗↗

What to notice and do

Walk the perimeter to follow the elliptical sweep and spot the shells 'voluted' out on corbel-like supports at each end—look closely at how the water reboses over their ridges. The kneeling nymph facing toward the Gran Vía grips her jug with both hands, absorbed in the act of pouring; the one facing Calle de la Princesa appears more preoccupied, lifting a hand to arrange her hair while only one hand holds the vessel. These small characterful differences reward a closer look.↗

The fountain is one of several water features in the plaza. On the reverse side of the nearby Monument to Cervantes you will find the grand 'Fountain of the Spanish Language,' with its scallop-shaped basin ringed by the heraldic shields of Spanish-speaking nations, so the two make a natural pair to compare as you cross the square. The gardens, benches and open lawns around them make it an easy place to rest between sights.↗

For photographers, late afternoon and long-exposure shots bring out the silky trails of the jets against the historic church or the city skyline. Evening lighting turns the moving water into the main event, and the wide plaza gives plenty of angles for framing the nymphs without crowds in the way.

Visiting

As a public monument in the open gardens, the Fountain of the Water Source is accessible free of charge and is effectively open 24 hours a day. The plaza is served by the Plaza de España metro and rail station, putting it within easy reach of the Gran Vía, the Royal Palace and the Temple of Debod to the west. The entrance area is step-free and wheelchair accessible, and the fountain is family-friendly, sitting near green space where children can run about.↗↗

Because it is an outdoor, always-open feature, the best time to visit is simply when the light suits you—early morning for empty surroundings, or golden hour and after dark for the water caught in motion. It is a quick, low-commitment stop that pairs well with a stroll through Plaza de España's gardens and a photo at the Temple of Debod.