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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 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. 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 the time or desire to be a researcher in the historical sense, I am happy to simply share my photos for others to enjoy, and when possible a bit of information. My thanks to the people the villages 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 in France!) please send me an email. Bob Drake |
Alet les Bains Arques Added 11 Feb 2009 Ax-les-Thermes Bonnac Campagne-les Bains Castans Chein-Dessus Coussa Update: 12 Feb 2009 Escueillens Fanjeaux Fougax et Barrineuf Homps Ille-sur-Tet Lieurac Limoux Olette Realmont Added 12 Feb 2009 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 Updated 17 Feb 2009 |