Paul Cezanne Statue
Celebrating Artistic Legacy: The Paul Cezanne Statue in Aix-en-Provence
Place de la Rotonde: The Heart of Aix-en-Provence
Experience the vibrant heart of Aix-en-Provence at Place de la Rotonde, a historic square featuring a magnificent fountain and lively atmosphere.
Place de la Rotonde is the central and most famous square in Aix-en-Provence, France, featuring a monumental fountain inaugurated in 1860. It serves as a vibrant hub connecting the city's past and future, framed by stunning architecture and bustling with local life.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Place de la rotonde
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Place de la rotonde, Aix-en-Provence, FR
Monday
8 am-7 pm
Tuesday
8 am-7 pm
Wednesday
8 am-7 pm
Thursday
8 am-7 pm
Friday
8 am-7 pm
Saturday
8 am-7 pm
Sunday
8 am-7 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Place de la rotonde
Getting There
Walking
From the Cours Mirabeau, simply head towards the northwest end, where you'll easily spot the iconic La Rotonde fountain. Walk directly towards the fountain to reach Place de la Rotonde. The square is located at the bottom of Cours Mirabeau.
Public Transport
From the Aix-en-Provence bus station (Gare Routière), many bus lines will take you to Place de la Rotonde. Look for buses that stop at 'Rotonde', which is a short walk from the square. Aix en Bus sells single tickets for €1.20. A 10-journey ticket costs €9.00.
Driving
If driving, aim for Parking Rotonde, a large underground car park with multiple entrances. Follow signs for 'Centre Ville' and then 'Rotonde'. Parking Rotonde is conveniently located beneath the square. The first 30 minutes are free for quick stops. Expect to pay around €25 for 24 hours.
Local tips
✓
Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and capture stunning photos without the crowds.
✓
Take a seat by the fountain and enjoy the view while people-watching, soaking in the lively ambiance of Aix-en-Provence.
✓
Check out local events or markets that may be happening in the square during your visit for an authentic experience.
✓
Bring your camera; the square is particularly photogenic at sunset when the fountain and surrounding buildings are beautifully illuminated.
Discover more about Place de la rotonde
Place de la Rotonde is more than just a square; it's the beating heart of Aix-en-Provence. Created between 1840 and 1850, this expansive space (100m in diameter) is most recognized for the Fontaine de la Rotonde, an iconic fountain that symbolizes the city. The fountain, designed by engineers Tournadre and Sylvestre, was inaugurated in 1860. Standing 12 meters high with a 32-meter wide basin, it is adorned with sculptures of lions, dolphins, swans, and children crafted by Truphème. At the top, three marble statues by Ramus, Chabaud, and Ferrat represent Justice (facing the Cours Mirabeau), Agriculture (towards Marseille), and Fine Arts (towards Avignon), symbolizing the cultural and economic pillars of the region.Originally supplied by the Zola Canal and later the Verdon Canal, the fountain now draws water from the Canal de Provence. The square itself acts as a focal point, connecting the historic Cours Mirabeau with the city's modern developments. It is a bustling hub where locals and tourists gather, surrounded by cafes, shops, and the vibrant energy of Aix-en-Provence. The square provides a perfect snapshot of Aix-en-Provence, blending history, art, and daily life into one captivating experience.
A brief summary to Place de la rotonde
Use Place de la rotonde as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Aix En Provence
Discover Aix-en-Provence: A picturesque city in southern France known for its vibrant markets, rich cultural history, and stunning architecture, perfect for an authentic French experience.
Tell me more about Aix En Provence
