Paris, the City of Lights, boasts over 200 fountains, each a testament to its rich history and artistic legacy. From the ancient streets of the Marais to the grand avenues of the 16th arrondissement, these water features offer a delightful glimpse into Parisian culture.
We’ve compiled a list of six must-see Parisian fountains, each showcasing a unique blend of history, architecture, and art. Whether you’re seeking a cool respite from the summer sun or simply admiring the intricate details of these monuments, these fountains are sure to enchant you.
Classical Grandeur: The Place de la Concorde Fountains
Standing guard on either side of the Place de la Concorde’s Egyptian obelisk, the Fontaine des Fleuves (Fountain of Rivers) and Fontaine des Mers (Fountain of Seas) are a breathtaking sight. These massive fountains, conceived by architect Jacques Ignace Hittorff and completed in 1840, are a symphony of classical art and architecture.
The Fontaine des Fleuves celebrates France’s network of rivers, with majestic figures representing the Rhône and Rhine rivers. The Fontaine des Mers pays homage to the nation’s maritime trade, featuring figures representing the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by intricate carvings of coral, fish, shells, and pearls. A ship, symbolizing Paris, stands proudly flanked by dolphins. Inspired by the fountains of Rome’s St. Peter’s Square, these monuments are a reminder of Paris’s enduring artistic legacy.
Romantic Enchantment: The Medici Fountain
In the tranquil Jardin du Luxembourg, nestled in the 6th arrondissement, lies the Medici Fountain, a testament to romanticism and timeless beauty. Commissioned by Marie de’ Medici in the 1630s, the fountain draws inspiration from the exquisite Boboli Gardens of Florence.
Transported to its current location and expanded in the mid-19th century, the fountain is adorned with sculptures by Auguste Ottin, depicting scenes from Greek mythology. A bronze Cyclops Polyphemus stares out, seemingly searching for his beloved Galatea, a white marble figure who transforms her dead lover, Acis, into a river spirit.
The long reflecting pool, surrounded by vibrant flowers and foliage, creates a captivating scene. Those with sharp eyes might even spot a second fountain dedicated to the myth of Leda and the Swan, tucked away behind the main structure.
A Modern Masterpiece: The Trocadéro Fountain
The Trocadéro Fountain, also known as the Fontaine de Varsovie (Warsaw), is a grand spectacle in the 16th arrondissement’s Trocadéro Garden. Standing directly across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower, with the Palais de Chaillot as its backdrop, this fountain is a photographer’s dream.
Created for the 1937 International Exposition of Art and Technology in Modern Life, the fountain features a long rectangular basin, a “water mirror,” flanked by 12 fountains that shoot towering columns of water 12 meters high. 24 smaller fountains erupt in a mesmerizing display of water jets reaching four meters in the air, while 20 water canons dramatically project water 50 meters into the sky. This modern marvel offers a captivating spectacle of light, water, and movement, making it a perfect place to enjoy a picnic while soaking in the cool Parisian breeze.
Historical Gems: The Fontaine de Mars and Fontaine de l’Observatoire
The Fontaine de Mars, located on rue Saint-Dominique in the 7th arrondissement, boasts a unique history. It overlooks the Champ de Mars, a vast open space where the Eiffel Tower now stands. This iconic fountain, with its timeless beauty, has become an integral part of Paris’s landscape, inspiring the name of our shared fractional apartment in the city.
The Fontaine de l’Observatoire, nestled in the 6th arrondissement’s Jardin Marco Polo at the southern end of the Jardin du Luxembourg, stands out with its striking design. Surrounded by eight rearing horses, the fountain is topped with a globe held aloft by four female statues representing the continents of Europe, America, Asia, and Africa, earning it the nickname “Fountain of the Four Parts of the World.” Commissioned by Baron Haussmann, the fountain is a testament to the artistic vision of Napoleon III’s sculptor Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux. Inaugurated in 1874, the fountain continues to captivate visitors with its intricate details, including zodiac signs and turtles spurting water.
A Renaissance Masterpiece: The Fontaine des Innocents
Paris’ oldest monumental public fountain, the Fontaine des Innocents, dates back to the 1550s and the French Renaissance. Originally located on Rue Saint-Denis, the fountain now graces the Place Joachim du Bellay in the heart of the Marais, near Les Halles. Originally named the Fountain of the Nymphs, it was commissioned to commemorate Henry II’s entry into Paris and crafted by renowned royal sculptor Jean Goujon. Admire the intricate sculptures of nymphs and mythical sea creatures while perched on the fountain’s circular edge.
The Wallace Fountains: A Legacy of Philanthropy
While not as grand as their more ornate counterparts, the city’s 107 Wallace Fountains offer a vital service to Parisians and visitors alike. These decorative public water fountains, a philanthropic gift from English gentleman Sir Richard Wallace, provide clean drinking water. First installed in 1872, these fountains are mainly made from dark green cast iron, adding a touch of elegance to the city’s streets. As you wander through Paris, keep your eyes peeled for these charming fountains, take a self-guided tour, or simply quench your thirst with their refreshing water.
From the grand classical designs of the Place de la Concorde to the historic charm of the Fontaine des Innocents, Paris’s fountains are a testament to the city’s artistic heritage and timeless beauty. These water features offer a unique glimpse into Parisian culture and history, inviting visitors to explore the city’s enchanting neighborhoods, discover hidden gems, and experience the magic of Paris’s most celebrated monuments.
