Father José de Anchieta is widely credited with writing the first grammar of the Tupi language at this location.
The name 'Biquinha' refers to the small spouts ('bicas') that have provided fresh water to travelers and locals for centuries.
Archaeological investigations in the surrounding Praça 22 de Janeiro have uncovered artifacts dating back to the earliest years of the São Vicente captaincy.
The fountain underwent significant architectural renovations in the mid-20th century to preserve its colonial-inspired aesthetic.
Local tradition suggests that drinking from the fountain brings good fortune or blessings, a belief linked to the site's association with the priest's missionary work.
Biquinha de Anchieta is a historic fountain located in São Vicente, marking the site where Jesuit priest José de Anchieta supposedly performed religious catechism for Indigenous populations in the 16th century. The current fountain structure features decorative tiles and masonry designed to commemorate the colonial period of the oldest city in Brazil. It serves as a symbolic point of interest within the Praça 22 de Janeiro. Visitors can observe the continuous water flow from the wall-mounted spouts. The location is situated near the coastal waterfront, reflecting its importance in early Portuguese settlement history. The site is a registered landmark that plays a central role in local historical memory.
Directly facing the tiled wall and fountain spouts from the center of the plaza.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Itararé beach promenade.
Visit during the weekday to avoid the high density of local foot traffic in the plaza.
Read the informational plaque located on the wall to understand the specific historical context of Father Anchieta's work here.
Do not mistake it for a modern drinking fountain; the water quality is not regularly tested for human consumption.
