Fontaine du Palmier, Neoclassical fountain at Place du Châtelet, Paris, France.
The Fontaine du Palmier is a Neoclassical fountain located on Place du Châtelet in the 1st arrondissement. It features a central column topped with a palm, surrounded by four bronze statues at its base and a basin decorated with sphinx water spouts.
The fountain was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte between 1806 and 1808 as part of a plan to provide fresh water to Paris. Egyptian sphinxes were added in 1858 during renovation work, referencing Bonaparte's Egyptian campaign.
The name comes from the palm tree crowning the central column, a symbol of victory in classical tradition. The inscriptions visible on the base commemorate military successes and remain a focal point for visitors exploring the square.
The fountain sits on a busy central square easily reached via Châtelet metro station in the heart of Paris. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer a quieter experience away from peak tourist and commuter foot traffic.
The four statues at the base represent virtues connected to good governance: Vigilance, Justice, Strength, and Prudence. These embodiments of ideals transform the fountain into something more than just a water source from the Napoleonic era.
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