Fontaine des Prêcheurs, Provence Travel Guide

4.5 (153)

Discover the Fontaine des Prêcheurs in Aix-en-Provence: a historic fountain adorned with sculptures, offering a serene escape in a bustling city square.

Home
Travel Guides
France
Provence
Fontaine des Prêcheurs

The Fontaine des Prêcheurs, a monumental fountain erected in 1758, graces the Place des Prêcheurs in Aix-en-Provence. It features an obelisk topped with an eagle, symbolizing reason, and is adorned with sculptures and medallions depicting historical figures.

A brief summary to Fontaine des Prêcheurs

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fontaine des Prêcheurs.

Visit the Place des Prêcheurs on market days to experience the vibrant local culture and sample regional products.
Take a leisurely stroll around the fountain to admire the intricate details of the sculptures and medallions.
Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Palais des Papes

Château des Baux-de-Provence

Provence Cross

Troglodyte caves of Villecroze

UNESCO Géoparc de Haute-Provence - Musée Promenade

Explore Fontaine des Prêcheurs on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fontaine des Prêcheurs, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Fontaine des Prêcheurs is located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence and is easily accessible by foot from most central locations. From the Cours Mirabeau, walk north towards the Place des Prêcheurs. The fountain is a central feature of the square.
Public Transport

Several bus lines serve the Place des Prêcheurs. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single ticket 'Aix 1 voyage' costs €1.20.
Taxi

Taxis are available throughout Aix-en-Provence. A short taxi ride to the Fontaine des Prêcheurs from a central location such as the train station will typically cost between €10-€15, but the final cost can vary based on traffic and time of day. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

Discover more about Fontaine des Prêcheurs

The Fontaine des Prêcheurs, located on the Place des Prêcheurs in Aix-en-Provence, is a stunning example of monumental baroque art. Created by Jean Pancrace Chastel in 1758, the fountain stands as a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage.At the heart of the fountain is a tall obelisk crafted from Calissanne stone. Atop the obelisk sits a sphere crowned by a white eagle with outstretched wings, a symbol imposed on Chastel to represent reason. The eagle is said to cast a symbolic glare towards the former site of the city's scaffold, adding a layer of allegorical significance to the monument.The fountain's pedestal is decorated with draperies, lions, and four medallions. These medallions, though destroyed and later reconstructed, portray significant figures such as Sextius Calvinus, the founder of Aix; Charles III of Maine, the last count of Provence; Louis XV; and Louis XVIII. The fountain once drew its water from the Pinchinats spring. The Place des Prêcheurs itself was once the busiest thoroughfare in Aix-en-Provence, hosting merchants, actors, and chivalrous tournaments before the Cours Mirabeau was built. Today, the Fontaine des Prêcheurs remains a beloved gathering spot, offering a serene atmosphere amidst the city's vibrant life.