Ain El Fouara Fountain: The Nude Muse of Sétif
Discover the iconic Ain El Fouara Fountain in Sétif, a symbol of art, history, and controversy in the heart of Algeria.
The Ain El Fouara Fountain, also known as the 'fountain spring gushing,' is a celebrated monument in the heart of Sétif, Algeria. The fountain features a statue of a nude woman sculpted from white stone and marble by French artist Francis de Saint-Vidal in 1898. Originally displayed at the Louvre Museum in France, it was later moved to Sétif. The statue has become a symbol of the city, inspiring poets and artists, and drawing visitors to admire its beauty and take photos. The fountain's water flows from four springs, offering a refreshing source for locals and tourists alike. However, the statue has also been a source of controversy, particularly among conservative and religious groups, due to its depiction of a nude woman. It has been vandalized several times, with attempts to destroy or deface it. Despite these incidents, the statue has been restored and remains a prominent feature of Sétif, representing the city's cultural and historical identity. Local lore and legend surrounds the statue, with stories of its creation tied to French governors and lost loves. Some claim the governor of Setif admired the piece and had it transferred to Setif. Others trace the sculpture's origin back to King Louis II of France, who allegedly had a statue of his love Queen Valentine of Britain created after her suicide.
Local tips
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the details of the sculpture and the fountain.
- Be respectful of local customs and sensitivities when viewing the statue.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the fountain and its surroundings.
A brief summary to تمثال عين الفوارة
- Naftal El Fouara, N5, Setif, Setif, DZ
Getting There
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Walking
The Ain El Fouara Fountain is located in the city center of Sétif, easily accessible by foot from most points in the downtown area. From the Place de la Révolution, walk west along the main street, and you'll find the fountain in the Place de l'Indépendance, surrounded by shops and cafes.
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Public Transport
Sétif has a tram system. You can take the tram to a station near the city center and then walk a short distance to the fountain. Check local tram schedules and routes for the nearest stop to Place de l'Indépendance. A one-way ticket costs approximately 15 DZD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Sétif. A short taxi ride from the Sétif train station or bus station to the Ain El Fouara Fountain will cost approximately 425 DZD. Ensure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
