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Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde: A Symbol of Unity

A stunning Parisian fountain in the Jardin des Grands-Explorateurs, symbolizing unity among the four continents known in the 19th century.

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The Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde, also known as the Observatoire Fountain, is a magnificent Parisian monument in the Jardin des Grands-Explorateurs. Created between 1867 and 1874, it features sculptures representing the four continents known at the time, promoting a message of unity.

A brief summary to Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde

  • 27M Av. de l'Observatoire, Paris, 75006, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details and symbolism of the sculptures.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
  • Take a stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, which is nearby.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde is accessible via the Paris Metro. The nearest stations are Raspail (lines 4 and 6) and Port Royal (RER B). From either station, it's a short walk to the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs. A single metro ticket costs €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Jardin du Luxembourg, walk south along the Avenue de l'Observatoire. The fountain is located at the southern end of the gardens, a walk of approximately 10 minutes. The walk is free.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Paris. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde will typically cost between €8 and €15, depending on traffic and the time of day. Note that there is a pickup fee of €3 and that fares per kilometer vary based on the time of day.

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Discover more about Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde

Located in the Jardin des Grands-Explorateurs, the Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde is a stunning representation of global unity through art. This fountain, also called the Observatoire Fountain or Fontaine Carpeaux, was created between 1867 and 1874. The commission for the fountain was part of Baron Haussmann's vision to enhance the gardens near the Observatoire de Paris. The fountain's design, attributed to architect Gabriel Davioud, incorporates sculptures by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, Emmanuel Frémiet, Eugène Legrain, and Louis Villeminot. The central feature is a group of four women who represent the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa, and America, supporting a celestial sphere. Each woman is depicted with features and adornments considered typical of her respective continent at the time. Asia is represented by a woman with a long braid, and America by a woman in a feathered headdress. Notably, Africa is depicted with a broken chain on her ankle, symbolizing the abolition of slavery, a movement that was still unfolding during the fountain's construction. America is shown placing her foot on this chain. The absence of Oceania is due to the continent still being largely unexplored when the fountain was designed. The fountain also features sea horses, dolphins, and turtles sculpted by Emmanuel Frémiet, adding to its dynamic and symbolic richness. Today, a plaster model of the work is also visible at the Musée d'Orsay.

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