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Place des Quatre-Dauphins: A Baroque Gem

Discover the charm of Aix-en-Provence at Place des Quatre-Dauphins, a historic square with a stunning baroque fountain and elegant architecture.

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Place des Quatre-Dauphins is a charming square in Aix-en-Provence's Mazarin district, known for its 17th-century fountain adorned with four dolphins. A peaceful oasis, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and soak up the Provençal atmosphere.

A brief summary to Place des Quatre-Dauphins

  • Pl. des 4 Dauphins, Aix-en-Provence, 13100, FR

Local tips

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the square to admire the architecture and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Visit during the day to see the fountain in action and capture beautiful photos.
  • Explore the surrounding Mazarin district, known for its elegant mansions and art museums.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Place des Quatre-Dauphins is located in the Mazarin district and is easily accessible on foot from most central Aix-en-Provence locations. From the Cours Mirabeau, walk south along Rue du Quatre-Septembre. The square will be at the intersection of Rue du Quatre-Septembre and Rue Cardinale. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stops are a short walk from the Place des Quatre-Dauphins. From the Gare Routière (bus station), take any bus that stops near the Cours Mirabeau. From there, walk south on Rue du Quatre-Septembre. A single ticket costs approximately €1.10 - €1.70. Consider a 10-journey ticket for €7.00 - €9.10 if you plan to use public transport frequently.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Aix-en-Provence. A short taxi ride from the train station or bus station to Place des Quatre-Dauphins will cost approximately €7-€9. Note that prices may vary depending on traffic and time of day.

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Discover more about Place des Quatre-Dauphins

Located in the heart of the Mazarin district, Place des Quatre-Dauphins is a picturesque square that embodies the elegance of Aix-en-Provence. The square's centerpiece is the baroque Fountain of the Four Dolphins, sculpted in 1667 by Jean-Claude Rambot. The fountain features four lifelike dolphins surrounding a column, initially intended to support a statue of St. Michael. Over time, the statue was replaced with a fleur-de-lis, a Maltese cross, and finally a pine cone. Originally named Place Saint-Michel, the square was part of Archbishop Michel Mazarin's 17th-century urban expansion project, designed with a checkerboard layout inspired by the Italian Renaissance. Mazarin initially planned to erect a statue of his brother, Cardinal Jules Mazarin, in the square, but the idea was abandoned after his death. Instead, the Fountain of the Four Dolphins was commissioned, becoming a beloved symbol of the city. Surrounded by private mansions dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, Place des Quatre-Dauphins offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. The square's pedestrian-friendly design and lush greenery create a relaxing environment for visitors. The square has also served as a backdrop for filmmakers like Antonioni and Wenders. Today, Place des Quatre-Dauphins remains a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various events and attracting visitors who come to admire its beauty and historical significance.

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