Bassins du Petit et Grand Palais

The basins of Petit and Grand Palais are neoclassical fountain sculptures featuring intricate stonework and layered water features positioned in front of the exhibition halls. They contain basins with figurative elements and display symmetrical classical design throughout their structure.

Jacques Ignace Hittorff designed these fountains during construction of the Grand Palais and Petit Palais for the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle. They arose as part of a major urban redesign that transformed the Champs-Elysees area into a modern civic center.

These fountains serve as informal gathering spots where visitors rest between nearby museums and enjoy the avenue's ambiance. They act as natural meeting points that orient people moving through the district.

These fountains are easily reached by multiple metro stations near Place de la Concorde and lie close to the Seine. The area is flat and largely accessible on foot, with plenty of open space for walking and lingering.

The two fountains showcase handcrafted details of remarkable precision, using water flows powered by early 20th century pump technology still functioning today. Many visitors overlook the fine carved reliefs built into the stone blocks that reveal themselves upon closer inspection.

Location: 8th arrondissement of Paris

Architects: Jacques Ignace Hittorff

GPS coordinates: 48.86517,2.31401

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:09