Place d’Albertas in Aix-en-Provence Time for Improvements

The square dates back to 1745 when the d’Albertas family, who lived in the large building opposite what was then a narrow street, decided that the old houses facing their property just had to go. Original contributor post by: Aixcentric.

More on Place d’Albertas

For a great view of local architecture and a photogenic fountain, head to Place d’Albertas. Named after the influential d’Albertas family, who migrated to Aix from Italy, the square was built at the request of Jean Baptiste d’Albertas, President of the Audit Office (la Cours des Comtes), in 1745. He wanted a better view from the windows of his home across the street, so he bought the buildings around the square and had them demolished (rational solution!). The houses were then rebuilt in a baroque style adhering to strict building guidelines, and sold to Aix inhabitants. This was a housing development before its time! The fountain in the square was designed and built by the students at the Ecole des Arts et Métiers in 1912 and replaced a previous fountain in terrible condition.

The place or square is at the heart of French culture — not to mention community and architecture. Every town, big or small, has its fair share of sites that have overseen festivals, markets, and families for centuries. Place d’Albertas is one of six (6) must-see squares in Aix-en-Provence.