Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Fountain of La Rouillasse, located in Soubise in New Aquitaine, dates from the first quarter of the 19th century. This monument is characterized by a rectangular pavilion built above two distinct sources: one clear water and the other ferruginous water. Its architecture reflects a desire for therapeutic or recreational exploitation of mineral waters, a common practice at that time. The graffiti of boats visible on site testify to a link with local maritime activity, Soubise being close to the Charente estuary.

The use of the ferruginous waters of Rouillasse dates back to at least the seventeenth century, when four sources fed a basin discovered via two parallel channels. Although their reputation seems to decline during the Revolution (their existence was forgotten in 1793), a private owner revived their operation in the early 19th century. He had the basins repaired, built the current pavilion, and in 1819 obtained official authorization to exploit the sources. This renewal is part of a context of rediscovering the virtues of mineral waters in France.

The fountain is listed as historic monuments by order of 28 October 1996, thereby recognizing its heritage value. Today owned by the municipality of Soubie, it illustrates local history related to hydrology and social practices around sources. Its state of conservation and its openness to the public are not specified in the available sources, but its registration guarantees legal protection against unauthorized changes.

External links