Richelme Square and the Boar Fountain, Aix-en-Provence

Richelme Square (Place Richelme) is widely known as the oldest and one of the most beautiful squares in Aix-en-Provence. The centrally-located square is surrounded by buildings with gilded facades and looming trees that cast comforting shadows.

During the daytime, Richelme Square hosts a food market that has been around since the 14th century. While the square is popular with tourists, most shoppers are locals. Visitors can enjoy shopping alongside residents before sitting at one of the tables to enjoy a picnic lunch.

The daily food market closes every evening. Richelme Square then becomes a spot for dining or having drinks. It is not a party atmosphere but an elegant place to relax.

The Boar Fountain (Fontana del Porcellino di Aix) is a primary feature of Richelme Square. The giant bronze boar is fashioned after a 17th-century statue in Florence, Il Porcellino (Italian "piglet"). The Boar was first displayed at the Town Hall, then moved to Richelme Square in the 1980s. It is situated outside the upmarket food chain, The Daily Bread (Le Pain Quotidien). The Boar Fountain is a great place to meet friends after browsing the market.