La Fontaine du Gros-Caillou: a neoclassical fountain in a chic area of Paris
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La Fontaine du Gros-Caillou is a historic fountain and square located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, near the famous Champ de Mars and the Eiffel Tower. It is also called La Fontaine de Mars.
La Fontaine du Gros-Caillou was built between 1806 and 1808 based on plans by engineer François-Jean Bralle. Its sculpted bas-reliefs are by Pierre-Nicolas Beauvallet, a student of Augustin Pajou. It was initially called the Gros Caillou Fountain because the water came from the Gros-Caillou fire pump.
In 1859, the arcaded square surrounding it was added.
At the foot of the fountain, a flood marker indicates the level reached by the waters of the Seine during the 1910 flood; the riverbed is located 570 m away.
The fountain was listed as a historic monument in 1926.
The Fountain
The Mars Fountain is a neoclassical structure. It takes the form of a large square base measuring approximately 2 meters on each side, framed by engaged and molded columns, all crowned with a portico roof.
The panels on the four sides are carved with bas-reliefs depicting Mars, god of war in Roman mythology, alongside Hygieia, goddess of health—an unusual illustration for a fountain, linked to its location in front of the entrance to the Gros-Caillou military hospital, founded in 1759 and demolished in 1896—on the side facing the street, and decorative vases on the other three sides.
Three bronze mascarons, the same as those on the Four Seasons fountain on Rue de Grenelle, spout water near the ground. Only one is still in use.
Restaurant La Fontaine de Mars
The restaurant nearby La Fontaine de Mars offers an authentic Parisian experience with its traditional bistro-style menu that includes classic French dishes, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The café has preserved its vintage interior decor, which showcases the aesthetic of Parisian brasseries from bygone eras.
The café remains a beloved establishment, consistent in its hospitality and atmosphere, providing a perfect spot for people-watching or relaxing after a visit to nearby landmarks.
La Fontaine du Gros-Caillou
75007 Paris, France
