Jean Cocteau reveals here the omnipresence of fountains, which undeniably contribute to the charm and fame of this city of water. Sometimes mossy, sometimes sober and discreet, sometimes exuberant and spectacular, these refreshing fountains will seduce you by the murmur of their waves as by their refinement. They tell the story of Aix-en-Provence, whose very name evokes water, like its namesakes Aix-les-Bains and Aix-la-Chapelle. Its ancient name, Aquae Sextiae (the waters of Sextius), recalls meanwhile this Roman general who lives in this valley abundant in hot and cold springs good prospects for development, allowing further the construction of aqueducts and the opening of thermal baths of which the Romans were so fond and of which there are still some vestiges visible in the very place where the thermal activity is perpetuated for more than 2000 years. These fountains, finally, consecrate the water, both origin and expression of wealth in Provence, ostentatious will of the power of this ancient capital and historical testimony of an overflowing economic activity, at the service of artisans (tanners, dyers, carders, weavers...), breeders during transhumance or simply the population. Whether it comes from springs or canals, the water of the fountains flows gently here and spreads in the arteries of the city, giving it the sweetness of life that we invite you to share by going to meet them.
The Granet Museum
