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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Saint-Hippolyte Fountain is an emblematic building located in Place de la Mairie, in the municipality of the same name, in the heart of the Haut-Rhin department in the Grand Est region. Built between the 4th quarter of the 16th century and the 1st quarter of the 17th century, it is distinguished by its octagonal basin in pink sandstone, decorated with panels carved in bas-relief. These decorations represent adjacent shields, rosettes, as well as a leather cartridge, while other panels display relief tables without particular decoration. In the centre, a pillar with two bronze chutes supports a circular pink sandstone drum, topped by a yellow sandstone column. The latter, with an ionic capital, ends with a globe and a flame, characteristic elements of the architecture of the era.

In the vicinity of the fountain is a former benigner (or perhaps an accessory related to domestic activities), in sandstone, whose hexagonal tank rests on a square foot with fallen angles. This element once served as a support for the hoods used to wash laundry in the fountain, as evidenced by a metal support made of wrought iron still visible. The fountain itself, dating from the 17th century, was classified as a Historic Monument by decree of May 11, 1932, thus recognizing its heritage value. Today it belongs to the municipality of Saint-Hippolyte, which ensures its preservation.

The materials used, such as pink and yellow sandstone, as well as carved motifs, reflect the craft techniques and stylistic influences of the late Renaissance in Alsace. The fountain, by its initial function related to water supply and collective practices (such as washing linen), also illustrates the social role of hydraulic monuments in the Alsatian villages of modern times. Its central location, in front of the city hall, highlights its importance in daily and community life.

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