Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The large fountain of Mollans, built between 1822 and 1823, is a rectangular covered washhouse, preceded by a drawing edicle. Its architecture is inspired by the Greek Doric style of Paestum, with five spans on the big sides. The pillars support a pond hall, originally designed for local washing machines. In 1861, the basins were lowered to ensure their water supply even during periods of low water, forcing users to wash on their knees.

The fountain is part of a larger hydraulic project, led by architect Louis-Nicolas Well. In 1838, repairs were undertaken, including the reconstruction of the colliery by architect Pierre Mougenot. Located south of the village, it is surrounded by a small closed courtyard and remains a testimony of the 19th century collective infrastructure in rural areas.

Ranked a historic monument in 2008, the large fountain is now owned by the municipality of Mollans. Its inclusion in the inventory of historical monuments underlines its heritage importance, both for its architecture and for its past social role. The works of Well and Bégeot, an entrepreneur, illustrate the local know-how and water needs of the communities of the time.

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