Place des Prêcheurs (Preachers Square), Aix-en-Provence

Preachers Square (Place des Prêcheurs) is a public plaza with a stunning fountain. It was named after the Dominican convent near the square, destroyed during the French Revolution.

The square was first designed in the 15th century by artist Jean de Paris. It was expanded and beautified around 1640 by architect Jean Lombard. The Preachers Square, now admired for its beauty, was once used for pu vbblic shaming and executions.

The Prêcheurs fountain, added in 1748, was crafted by sculptor Jean-Pancrace Chastel. It consisted of a tall obelisk with four lions guarding each corner. The four medallions embedded in the obelisk feature Sextus, the founder of the Roman city, Charles III, Louis XV, and Louis XVIII.

The fountain was destroyed in 1793. The restoration of the Prêcheurs fountain didn't take place until 1833.

Preachers Square is located in front of the Madeleine Church, constructed between 1691 and 1703. The church is known for its many works of art by artists who lived in Aix. It was the home church of artist Paul Cezanne and his family.