Fontaine des Trois Graces (Fountain of the Three Graces), Calais
The Fountain of the Three Graces in Calais is a historical marvel located in Saint-Pierre Park, where it has stood as a symbol of elegance since its installation in 1863. Built to commemorate the arrival of water from the Guines Canal, this fountain represents more than just an artistic landmark—it celebrates a major advancement in Calais' public utilities.
The basin design, inspired by the gardens of Versailles, serves as a fitting backdrop for the central figures, the Three Graces: Aglaea, Euphrosyne, and Thalia, each embodying charm, beauty, and creativity. These graceful figures, crafted in the neoclassical style, were inspired by Germain Pilon’s renowned works, while the playful children at their feet nod to Edme Bouchardon's artistic influence.
Weighing over four tons, the fountain's impressive structure combines artistic refinement with a grand scale, creating a harmonious connection between Calais’ heritage and European art traditions. In the late 1980s, the fountain underwent significant restoration, with vibrant lighting and updated water features, breathing new life into this historical centerpiece. Today, the Fountain of the Three Graces continues to be a beloved icon in Calais, admired for its timeless beauty and historical resonance, a sister in spirit to similar monuments like the Fountain of the Three Graces in Malaga.
The basin design, inspired by the gardens of Versailles, serves as a fitting backdrop for the central figures, the Three Graces: Aglaea, Euphrosyne, and Thalia, each embodying charm, beauty, and creativity. These graceful figures, crafted in the neoclassical style, were inspired by Germain Pilon’s renowned works, while the playful children at their feet nod to Edme Bouchardon's artistic influence.
Weighing over four tons, the fountain's impressive structure combines artistic refinement with a grand scale, creating a harmonious connection between Calais’ heritage and European art traditions. In the late 1980s, the fountain underwent significant restoration, with vibrant lighting and updated water features, breathing new life into this historical centerpiece. Today, the Fountain of the Three Graces continues to be a beloved icon in Calais, admired for its timeless beauty and historical resonance, a sister in spirit to similar monuments like the Fountain of the Three Graces in Malaga.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Calais. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Fontaine des Trois Graces (Fountain of the Three Graces) on Map
Sight Name: Fontaine des Trois Graces (Fountain of the Three Graces)
Sight Location: Calais, France (See walking tours in Calais)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Calais, France (See walking tours in Calais)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Calais, France
Create Your Own Walk in Calais
Creating your own self-guided walk in Calais is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Calais Introduction Walking Tour
Calais, a French port city, strategically overlooks the Strait of Dover at the English Channel's narrowest point, merely 34 km (21 miles). On a sunny day, one can clearly see the White Cliffs of Dover on the English side. A major ferry port between France and England, Calais also has been connected directly to the UK by rail, through the Channel Tunnel, since 1994.
The name Calais, tracing... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
The name Calais, tracing... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles