Latona Fountain, Marble fountain in Gardens of Versailles, France
Latona Fountain is a marble fountain in the Gardens of Versailles featuring four tiers in varying stone colors arranged in a pyramid shape. The structure displays frogs, lizards, and water creatures that spray water, with each element contributing to the overall mythological scene.
Brothers Gaspard and Baltazard Marsy created the fountain between 1666 and 1670 as a showcase of Baroque artistry. Jules Hardouin-Mansart later redesigned it significantly between 1687 and 1689.
The fountain shows the mythological story of goddess Latona protecting Apollo and Diana while transforming Lycian peasants into frogs. The water features and sculptures tell this ancient tale in a way visitors can observe and interpret as they walk around.
The fountain sits within the main gardens and is easy to reach from the palace. Water displays operate on specific days during warmer months, so checking in advance about which days have active jets will help you plan your visit.
An underground network of lead pipes beneath the fountain delivers water to around 230 different points, revealing the engineering sophistication of the period. This hidden system allows precise water sprays from frogs and other figures while remaining completely invisible.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
