Bassin d'Apollon, Water fountain in Versailles, France
Description
The Bassin d'Apollon is a fountain in Versailles featuring a sculpture of Apollo guiding a chariot pulled by four horses that rises from the water. Classical architectural and decorative elements frame this water basin.
History
This fountain was constructed between 1668 and 1671, replacing an earlier pond that had been known as the Pond of the Swans. The transformation brought classical artistic forms to this location.
Culture
The figure of Apollo references ancient mythology and connects it to French royal culture and the artistic values prized at court. This representation embodied power and creative achievement as they were understood during the era of Versailles.
Practical
The fountain is easily accessible from outside and open to visitors at any time since it sits in public space. The water surface and reflections appear clearest during daytime hours when natural light is strongest.
Did you know?
A complete marble replica of this fountain was created for the Chimei Museum in Taiwan using laser measurements and Italian marble workers. This copy demonstrates how classical French artworks have been reconstructed and transported to distant locations worldwide.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Versailles).
European fountains have been central features of city squares, gardens, and palaces since the 16th century. These water features display scenes from mythology, religion, and history through carefully crafted sculptures and flowing water. Each fountain tells a story about the place where it stands...
Bosquet de l'Encelade
153 m
Enceladus Fountain
153 m
Apollon sur son char
0 m
Silène portant Bacchus
87 m
Jupiter
76 m
Aristaeus fettering Proteus
69 m
Pomone
81 m
Pan
73 m
Junon
78 m
Femme à l’enfant
126 m
Bacchus
78 m
Flore
76 m
Bassin de l'Encelade
167 m
Junon
164 m
Vertumne
80 m
Bacchus
95 m
Bacchus
89 m
Hercule
145 m
Artemise
113 m
Cléopâtre Mourant
165 m
Personnage romain
139 m
Apollon à la Lyre
107 m
Bacchus
94 m
Achille à Scyros
113 m
Work of art
87 m
Work of art
86 m
Work of art
167 m
Amazone
140 mReal people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
To be discovered during the Great Musical Fountains of the Palace of Versailles!
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes