Fuente de los Peces

## Introduction

The Fuente de los Peces (Fountain of the Fish) is one of Almería’s most distinctive sculptural landmarks, located within the historic Parque de Nicolás Salmerón. Designed in 1947 by the renowned local artist Jesús de Perceval, the fountain serves as a focal point for the city’s post-war artistic revival. Perceval was the founder of the Indaliano movement, which sought to modernise Almerian art while remaining rooted in Mediterranean traditions. This Neo-baroque monument features a tiered structure adorned with large, expressive fish and mythical figures. It appeals to visitors interested in regional art history, as well as those seeking a cool, shaded respite from the intense Almerian sun. Positioned between the historic city centre and the port, it provides a sense of continuity between the urban landscape and the sea.

## What to See & Do

### Admire the Sculptures of Jesús de Perceval The fountain is the most celebrated work of Jesús de Perceval in the public sphere. Observe the central pillar where four large fish—often described as groupers or sea bass—spout water into the lower basin. Above them, Perceval included figures of children or tritons that embody a sense of playfulness and maritime mythology. The craftsmanship reflects the Indaliano style, characterised by a focus on light, volume, and Mediterranean identity. Take a moment to look at the texture of the stone and the dynamic poses of the figures, which appear to be emerging directly from the water. It is a rare example of mid-20th-century regionalism that remains relevant to Almería's visual identity today.

### Walk the Length of Parque de Nicolás Salmerón The Fuente de los Peces is situated in the section of the park known as the "Old Park" (Parque Viejo). This strip of greenery is one of the most established botanical spaces in the city, providing a barrier between the busy port and the residential streets. After viewing the fountain, walk south towards the newer sections of the park. You will encounter centennial trees, including giant ficus and diverse palm species, which provide a deep canopy of shade. The park’s layout, with its gravel paths and stone benches, offers a traditional Spanish promenade experience that has remained largely unchanged for decades.

### Experience the Fountain at Night While the fountain is impressive during the day, it takes on a different character after sunset. Almería city council often employs a subtle lighting scheme that highlights the contours of the fish and the cascading water. The illumination accentuates the shadows in Perceval’s carvings, making the figures look more dramatic against the dark backdrop of the park’s foliage. This is a popular time for locals to take their evening *paseo* (stroll), and the temperature is significantly more comfortable. The sound of the falling water also seems more pronounced in the evening, offering a tranquil soundtrack that masks the nearby traffic noise from the port road.

## Practical Information

### Getting There The Fuente de los Peces is located on the edge of the city centre, making it easily accessible on foot from major attractions. It is a five-minute walk from the Almería Cathedral and roughly ten minutes from the Alcazaba fortress. If you are arriving by bus, lines 1, 2, 6, 11, and 18 all have stops along the Vía Parque or nearby on Calle Reina Regente. For those driving, the most convenient parking is the "Parking Real Almería" or the underground facility at the Port (Puerto de Almería), both of which are within a few hundred yards of the fountain.

### Opening Times & Tickets As the fountain is located in a public park, it is free to visit and accessible 24 hours a day. There are no tickets or entry requirements. The water is typically kept running throughout the day and evening, though maintenance may occasionally see it switched off during the early morning hours or during periods of drought management. Check the official Almería city council website for any scheduled park closures during local festivals or maintenance.

### How Long to Spend A visit to the fountain itself requires about 15 to 20 minutes to appreciate the sculptural details and take photographs. However, it is best enjoyed as part of a longer walk through the Parque de Nicolás Salmerón. If you intend to walk the full length of the park and continue towards the Cable Inglés (the historic iron ore pier), allow at least an hour for a leisurely pace.

### Best Time to Visit The best time to visit is during the "golden hour," approximately an hour before sunset. The low sun reflects off the water and the pale stone of the sculptures, providing excellent conditions for photography. In terms of seasons, spring and autumn are ideal. In the height of summer, the park offers necessary shade, but the humidity from the nearby port can be high; visiting before 11:00 am or after 8:00 pm is recommended to avoid the midday heat.

## Tips for Your Visit For the best photographs, stand on the city side of the fountain facing towards the sea to catch the afternoon light hitting the stone. If you have time, continue your walk east to see the Cable Inglés, which is Almería’s most famous industrial landmark. There are several traditional kiosks in the park where you can buy cold water or a coffee to enjoy on the benches near the fountain. Keep an eye on your belongings, as the park is a popular thoroughfare.