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Historical places

Fuente de Cella

4.6 · 675 reviews
Quiet and reflective
Fuente de Cella, Av. de la Fuente, s/n, 44370 Cella, Teruel, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The spring basin holds approximately 12,000 cubic meters of water.

2

The water maintains a constant temperature of 11 degrees Celsius year-round.

3

It is considered the largest artesian well in Europe in terms of flow rate.

4

The octagonal structure was built to prevent the flooding of surrounding lands while ensuring irrigation for the Jiloca valley.

5

The aquifer supplying the spring is fed primarily by water filtering through the limestone mountains of the Sierra de Albarracín.

Overview

Fuente de Cella is the largest artesian spring in Europe and one of the largest in the world, with an estimated flow of 3,500 liters per second. The spring is contained within a large, octagonal stone basin measuring 130 meters in perimeter, constructed in 1729 to regulate the water flow. The water emerges from an aquifer located roughly 10 meters below the surface. This spring acts as the headwaters of the Jiloca River, which flows through the province of Teruel. The site remains a vital hydrological and historical landmark for the town of Cella, maintaining a constant temperature and flow rate throughout the year. The octagonal masonry work reflects 18th-century hydraulic engineering designed to manage water distribution for local agricultural use.

Photo spot

From the raised stone wall edge looking across the entire octagonal basin toward the town church tower in the background.

Insider tips

Walk the entire perimeter of the stone basin to observe the varying water clarity and currents.

Combine your visit with a walk along the Jiloca River path that starts near the spring.

Visit during the local festivals when the town square adjacent to the spring becomes the community hub.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim or climb into the basin, as it is a protected heritage site and a primary water source.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for pleasant temperatures when walking the surrounding river paths.
Address
Fuente de Cella, Av. de la Fuente, s/n, 44370 Cella, Teruel, Spain
40.454, -1.291
Get directions
Details
Historical Significance18th-century hydraulic engineering project
Key FeatureOctagonal stone basin with 3,500 liters/second output

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for pleasant temperatures when walking the surrounding river paths..

From the raised stone wall edge looking across the entire octagonal basin toward the town church tower in the background.

Close by you'll find CENTRO VISITAS ACUEDUCTO ROMANO GEA, Acueducto Romano Albarracin-Gea-Cella. Tramo IV, Barranco de los Burros, Laguna del Cañizar.