Sainte-Marie Fountain

The Sainte-Marie fountain

A stop on the Sarlat audio-guided tour, the Sainte-Marie fountain is nestled in a natural grotto fitted out in the twelfth century. It is recognisable by its wide pointed arch vault and its four water mouths that still flow today.

A spring linked to a tragedy

For centuries, it was the city's only source of drinking water. Its name goes back to a tragedy: in 1279, the plague struck Sarlat and carried off half its population. The inhabitants then implored the Virgin in the church of Sainte-Marie. As the disease receded, a Marian niche was placed at the back of the spring in thanks, giving it its name.

What to see

A place of life and beliefs, the fountain also inspired traditions: travellers threw coins into it, quickly collected by the neighbourhood children. Approach with respect this ancient spring, a witness to the faith and daily life of the people of Sarlat through the centuries.

Practical information

The Sainte-Marie fountain is on rue des Consuls, in the historic centre of Sarlat. Freely accessible, it can be discovered at any time.

Where does the name of the Sainte-Marie fountain come from ?

From a Marian niche placed at the back of the spring after the receding of the 1279 plague.

What role did the fountain play ?

For centuries it was the only source of drinking water in Sarlat.