Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The fountain of the Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville in Aix-en-Provence, built in 1755, is an emblematic work of the city. It is surmounted by a Roman column and decorated with mascarons carved by Jean-Pancrace Chastel, who spit water from the spring of the Pinchinats. This fountain, classified as a historical monument in 1905, is part of a remarkable architectural complex including the city hall and the grain hall.

The Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, located in the city centre, is bordered by the town hall, rebuilt between 1655 and 1678 by architect Pierre Pavillon. The clock tower, adjacent to the city hall, dates from Roman times and was raised in 1510. It houses a 16th century bell, once used to summon the inhabitants.

The grain hall, built from 1754 between the Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville and Place Richelme, is now a municipal library. Its allegorical pediment, carved by Jean-Pancrace Chastel, represents the Rhône and Durance, symbols of Provencal agricultural prosperity. The fountain, hall and town hall form a coherent, classified and protected architectural complex.

The square regularly hosts flower markets and an ancient book fair, perpetuating its role as a gathering and exchange place. The astronomical clock of 1661, located in the tower, recalls the historical importance of this site as an administrative and social center since the fourteenth century.

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