Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Modane Fountain is a historical monument located in the municipality of Modane, Savoie (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes). Built in the 16th century, it is distinguished by its granite structure, typical of the lasting achievements of this period in mountainous areas. The building was listed in the Historical Monuments Inventory by Ministerial Order on March 29, 1951, recognizing its heritage and architectural value.

In the 16th century, public fountains played a central role in alpine villages, serving as a drinking water point, a place of sociality and sometimes a symbol of communal power. Modane, located on a strategic axis between France and Italy, benefited from an urban organisation where these infrastructures were essential for everyday life. The granite fountain reflects local stone-cutting techniques and the importance attached to the sustainability of collective works.

Available data indicate that the fountain is now owned by the municipality of Modane. Its approximate address, 9002 Rue Sainte-Barbe, suggests a location in the historic heart of the city. No information is provided on its current accessibility (visits, schedules) or any associated services, such as nearby rentals or accommodation.

The main source of this information, Monumentum, also mentions an imprecise GPS location (level 3 on a scale of 10), without providing additional details on the stylistic features or possible restorations of the fountain. Photo credits are awarded to Florian Pépellin under Creative Commons license, but no image or visual description is included in the data consulted.

Code Insee 73157 confirms Modane's membership in the Savoie department, whose prefecture is Chambéry. The administrative region, originally called Rhône-Alpes, was merged in 2016 to form Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the current geographical context of the monument.

No historical or artisanal character is explicitly associated with the construction or protection of the fountain in available sources. Similarly, the specific circumstances of its creation (command, funding, size workshop) are not documented, limiting its understanding of history to its heritage inscription and its original function.

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