Located in the heart of Paris on Place Joachim-du-Bellay, the Fountain of the Innocents is the city’s oldest monumental fountain. Commissioned between 1547 and 1550 by architect Pierre Lescot and sculptor Jean Goujon, it was created to celebrate King Henry II's solemn entry into Paris in 1549 . Originally built as a loggia next to the Church and Cemetery of the Holy Innocents, it featured three arches decorated with five naiads, symbols of water and abundance, in classic Renaissance style .

In the 18th century, the church and cemetery were demolished for health reasons . The fountain was moved to the center of the Innocents market and transformed into a four-sided pavilion: a fourth façade was added in 1788 by Augustin Pajou, and four lions spewed water into terraced basins . Later, in 1860, architect Gabriel Davioud integrated it into his design, with a stepped pedestal and circular basin,during the construction of the Baltard market halls .

After more than 470 years, the fountain suffered from weathering, pollution and corroded hydraulics. A major restoration took place from July 2023 to June 2024, costing approximately €4.5 million, with resin replicas of the naiads, basin overhaul, new water system and LED lighting . Water flowed once more in summer 2024, just in time for the Olympic Games.

Today, the Fountain of the Innocents is a daily meeting point: tourists and Parisians pause under its arches, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Les Halles district, located steps from the Centre Pompidou. It attracts history buffs, architecture and art lovers, as well as photographers and families on strolls. Perfect for a moment of contemplation or a photo break, the fountain is surrounded by cafés and restaurants.

Fun fact: it's nicknamed the “Fountain of the Naiads” because of its bas-reliefs, five originals of which are now housed at Carnavalet Museum or the Louvre during the 2024 exhibition .

Practical info: open 24/7, freely accessible, served by metro lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14 (Châtelet‑Les Halles), and many bus lines. No admission fee.