The Rotonde Fountain (Fontaine de la Rotonde) is one of the most featured and recognizable landmarks in Aix-en-Provence. Constructed on a grand scale in 1860 by architect Henri Antoine Charvet, it measures twelve meters (39 feet) high and thirty-two meters (105 feet) wide.
Set in the middle of the place du général de Gaulle at the west end of the popular Cours Mirabeau, the Fontaine de la Rotonde is emblematic of both the elegance of Aix and the dominant role that water has had here over the centuries. So much so, the city is nicknamed the “city of water” (ville d’eau) and “city of a 1000 fountains“.
Surrounding the Rotonde Fountain you can choose from one of several restaurants to share a meal or drinks on their outside terraces, perhaps do some shopping in the modern Allées Provençales, or simply select a perfect spot to sit, relax and soak in the scenery. It’s also where you’ll find the central congregating area for taxi’s (the local bus and train stations are not far from here as well), tourist office, and a post office.
The fountain is illuminated at night, transforming its impressive appearance into an even more dramatic backdrop for the tourists and locals to enjoy while mingling nearby. And if you’re lucky enough to be in Aix for Bastille Day, it’s an ideal setting to watch the firework display overhead. No matter the season of year or time of day, you‘ll feel inspired by its incredible beauty and the city it represents.