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Fontaine des Prêcheurs: A Baroque Masterpiece

Aix-en-Provence's Fontaine des Prêcheurs: a historic fountain featuring baroque design and symbolic sculptures in a bustling public square.

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The Fontaine des Prêcheurs, a monumental fountain erected in 1758, graces the Place des Prêcheurs in Aix-en-Provence. Designed by Jean Pancrace Chastel, it exemplifies the baroque style with an obelisk topped by an eagle. The fountain stands as a historic and artistic jewel in the heart of Aix.

A brief summary to Fontaine des Prêcheurs

  • Pl. des Prêcheurs, Aix-en-Provence, 13100, FR

Local tips

  • Visit the Place des Prêcheurs on Saturday morning to experience the vibrant central market.
  • Take a stroll around the fountain to admire the intricate details of the sculptures and the architecture.
  • Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes and soak in the atmosphere of this historic square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Cours Mirabeau, walk north towards the Place des Prêcheurs. The fountain is located in the center of the square, in front of the Palais de Justice. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and is on a pedestrian-friendly route.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the Place des Prêcheurs. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the bus station, walk towards the city center. The Place des Prêcheurs is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. A single bus ticket costs around €1.10.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Aix-en-Provence. A short taxi ride from the train station or another location in the city center to Place des Prêcheurs will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic and time of day.

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Discover more about Fontaine des Prêcheurs

The Fontaine des Prêcheurs, located on the Place des Prêcheurs in Aix-en-Provence, is a magnificent fountain dating back to 1758. Before the construction of Cours Mirabeau, Place des Prêcheurs was the busiest thoroughfare in Aix-en-Provence. The square was a hub of public and social life in Aix. Jean Pancrace Chastel, a renowned master sculptor, created the fountain. The fountain's design showcases the baroque style, featuring a Calissanne stone obelisk at its center. Atop the obelisk, a sphere is surmounted by a white eagle with outstretched wings. The eagle symbolizes reason and was included to watch over the location where the city's scaffold once stood. The fountain features a square basin and a pedestal decorated with draperies. Water flows from large, inverted shells. The pedestal is adorned with four lions protecting medallions of important figures of the time. These medallions depict Sextius Calvinus, the founder of Aix; Charles III of Maine; Louis XV, and the Count of Provence, who later became Louis XVIII. The fountain was listed as a historical monument in 1905.

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