Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Fountain des Barres is an old fountain located in the historical district of the Château, in the heart of Limoges. Its name comes from the grilling (or "bars") that originally covered the well margin, then the fountain reservoir, to avoid accidental falls. Installed in 1615, it was fed by captured sources through tunnels dug into the tuff, pouring into a granite basin. This system once supplied the southeast part of the city, playing a key role in water distribution.

The current structure consists of a cubic granite base supporting a square slab with ground edges, surmounted by a stone pyramid with adorned edges. A ironware console, probably intended to carry a statue, and two flat niches suggest missing decorative elements. The pyramid, a central element, was classified as a Historic Monument in 1949, while modifications were made in 1853, partially adapting its appearance.

Architecturally, the fountain illustrates 17th century water capture and distribution techniques, combining public utility and ornaments. Its characteristic grilling, now disappeared but referred to by its name, reflects the security concerns of the time. The Place des Barres, where it stands, remains an emblematic place of the limougeaud heritage, testifying to the hydraulic ingenuity of the past.

Property of the municipality of Limoges, the fountain is located at two referenced addresses: Place des Barres and 7 Rue des Filles Notre-Dame. Its inscription in the Historical Monuments in 1949 underlines its heritage importance, although its GPS location is considered to be "a priori satisfactory" (level 7/10).

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