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"...the fountain is not a monument, but an entity..." Louis Plantier. Springs and fountains have always fascinated me. Here in France nearly every village has its ancient fountain fed by a natural spring; the veritable source of life. Some have curious legends about them, many are still potable and much better than chlorinated tapwater. I'm not especially interested in the vast, monumental fountains of larger cities, rather the practical, rustic fountains and springs of rural areas and small towns. Lavoirs are sheltered structures with stone basins using spring water for washing clothes. The basins have an inclined, flat surface around the perimeter on which to scrub your items and are cleverly designed to keep fresh water flowing in and soapy water flowing out, a perfect example of functional beauty. Often dating from medieval times, some are in a sad state of disrepair; others are kept in fine condition and still used for washing today. Occasionally you will find a lavoir which uses warm or even hot spring water. I don't have time to be a "researcher" in the historical sense, I am happy to simply
present my photos here for others to enjoy, and when possible a bit of information. My
thanks to the people of the mayor's offices and the villagers who have given me
information or told me their own recollections. Finally, if you have a photo you'd like
to share on the guest page (even if it's not a location in France!) please send me an
email. |
Alet les Bains Ax-les-Thermes Bonnac Campagne-les Bains Castans Chein-Dessus Added 16 April 2006 Coussa Escueillens Fanjeaux Fougax et Barrineuf Homps Added 14 Aug 2007 Ille-sur-Tet Lieurac Limoux: Fontaine de Notre Dame de Marceille Olette Added 16 Aug 2007 Roquefixade Source St. Dominic Saint Bertrand des Comminges Saint Paul de Fenouillet St. Paul de Jarrat Tréziers Old postcards of fountains and spas of France. Guest photos |
