Visit Aix-en-Provence the Provencal City of Water Fountains

Aix en Provence is often referred to as the city of water. The Romans settled here in part due to ready access to natural springs. As the town began to take shape during the Middle Ages, there were hundreds of fountains created for domestic use. Today there are only about 30. These remaining fountains are beautifully ornamented and simply for viewing pleasure no longer serving any utilitarian functionality.

Aix-en-Provence City of Water

The fountains can be found at intersections, in squares and even in some hidden corners of Aix. The largest fountain (photo below) is called La Rotonde it was built in 1860. This fountain once marked the entrance to the city. Even today, La Rotonde is one of the most recognizable and photographed sights in the city of Aix.

It is also referred to as the Fountain of the Three Graces because of the three marble figures that decorate the crown. The three statues represent the principal cities of Provence, Aix, Avignon and Marseille. The statues are named Justice (facing the Cours Mirabeau and the Courthouse), Agriculture (oriented towards Marseille) and Fine Arts (looking towards Avignon).

Apparently, the other figures that decorate the fountain and represent the main activities of this city and region. Although, I am not certain who the nymphs, geese and lions are meant to represent…

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).