Fontaine du Pilori, Historical fountain in La Rochelle, France

The Fontaine du Pilori is a historical monument in La Rochelle situated at the intersection of Rue du Minage and Rue du Cordouan. It features classical styling with a carved stone face at ground level that once provided water to the community.

The fountain was originally built in the early 18th century to supply water to the city population. It underwent modifications over time to meet changing community needs and safety standards.

The fountain's name recalls its original site, the "Puits Lori", a deep circular pit six metres wide reached by two horseshoe-shaped staircases. The pit was filled in 1711 and the fountain raised to street level in 1722. Water still flows from a carved mascaron on the front face, above which sits a round-arched niche with a coat of arms.

The fountain sits in a central location within the old town and is easily reached on foot. You can find it while walking through the historic streets of the city.

The fountain was first called "Fontaine du Puits Lori" and stood at the bottom of a circular pit six metres (20 feet) across, reached by two horseshoe-shaped staircases that were hard and dangerous to descend, especially in winter. The pit was filled in 1711 and the fountain raised to street level in 1722.