Fontaine des Barres

The Fontaine des Barres, in Limoges

The Fontaine des Barres is an elegant fountain in the shape of a pyramid dating from the seventeenth century, in Limoges. The Limoges audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this charming monument, that adorns the square of the same name, lined with fine buildings of Renaissance inspiration.

The pyramid fountain of the seventeenth century

Here we are in front of the Fontaine des Barres, that presents itself in the shape of a pyramid. It dates from the seventeenth century and adorns the square that bears its name, lined with fine buildings of Renaissance style. This elegant stone fountain, with a characteristic pyramidal silhouette, is a charming witness of the old heritage of Limoges and of the art of the urban fountains. Over the centuries, the fountains played an essential role in the life of the towns: they provided the water to the inhabitants, indispensable in everyday life at a time when running water did not exist in the houses, and constituted points of meeting and life in the heart of the districts. Beyond their utilitarian function, the finest of them, like the Fontaine des Barres, were also careful ornaments that embellished the public space and testified to the taste and the prosperity of the town. With its original shape and its antiquity, this fountain brings charm and character to its square, in a harmonious architectural setting that invites to strolling. It is one of these little treasures that make the spice of the discovery of old Limoges. A historic fountain and an ornament of the square, the Fontaine des Barres is a fine stop of the discovery of the town.

What to see

You admire the elegant fountain in the shape of a pyramid dating from the seventeenth century, that adorns the square of the same name lined with fine buildings of Renaissance inspiration; witness of the old heritage of Limoges, this fountain formerly provided the water to the inhabitants while embellishing the public space, and today brings charm and character to its square. The Fontaine des Barres is an ornament of old Limoges. It is a fine stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Fontaine des Barres lies on the Place des Barres, in the heart of Limoges, reachable on foot. It is an open-air monument, freely accessible and visible. You discover it during a walk in the historic centre.

What is the Fontaine des Barres in Limoges?

An elegant fountain in the shape of a pyramid dating from the seventeenth century, that adorns the square of the same name, lined with fine buildings of Renaissance inspiration; witness of the old heritage of Limoges, it formerly provided the water to the inhabitants while embellishing the public space, and today brings charm and character to its square.

Where is the Fontaine des Barres in Limoges?

On the Place des Barres, in the heart of Limoges, in France.