Fontaine Saint-Michel

Fountain etched into building near Seine River and Notre Dame Cathedral. It is a fairly large foundation and quite imposing. Close to main roads so extra caution would be necessary especially if travelling with children.

Set back aways from the Seine, this magnificent monument certainly catches the eye. Many different pieces make up the whole and it can be worth a number of pictures taken from different angles. Interestingly the fountain is not stand alone, but built onto the end wall of a house.

Interesting monument with a cute Christmas market still open on January 1st. (10-15 stalls maybe).

This is a stunning monumental fountain, located at the beginning of a housing structure, we love how the french cant bare, an empty space, a square and an ornament will fill the space, of course.

Great spot for photos, featuring a beautiful fountain and a striking statue of Saint Michael. The area around the fountain is lively, with souvenir shops and cafes. It’s a convenient stop if you’re visiting Notre Dame, as it’s a short walk away. It’s a perfect place to soak in the Parisian atmosphere and capture some memorable shots.

Located at the vibrant Place Saint-Michel in the Latin Quarter, the Saint-Michel Fountain (Fontaine Saint-Michel) is a striking symbol of Parisian charm and historical significance. Built in 1860 during the reign of Napoleon III, the fountain was designed by Gabriel Davioud as part of Baron Haussmann’s grand urban renovation of Paris. The centerpiece of the fountain is an impressive sculpture of Saint Michael, the Archangel, triumphing over evil as he slays a dragon. This dramatic depiction is surrounded by intricate carvings, elegant columns, and flowing water, creating a sense of movement and life. The pink marble and green bronze details add a touch of grandeur, making it a standout piece of 19th-century art. The Saint-Michel Fountain serves as more than just a visual masterpiece; it is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. Its location, just steps away from the Seine River and Notre-Dame Cathedral, makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the lively Latin Quarter, filled with cafes, bookshops, and history. A visit to this iconic fountain offers a glimpse into Paris’s rich architectural heritage and serves as a serene yet vibrant spot to take in the city’s timeless allure.

We enjoyed seeing the monumental St. Michel fountain fitted into a building facade at Place Saint-Michel on the Left Bank side of the Seine. It was designed by architect Gabriel Davioud (1860) and based upon the concept of the Acqua Felice fountain (Rome). The fountain measures 26 metres in height and features a bronze of St. Michel with raised sword, flanked by red marble Corinthian columns, bronzes of lion headed dragons with water spouting from their mouths into a basin below. It is an interesting composition and worth a few minutes to enjoy when sightseeing in the area.

Saint Michel overall is a really nice place to visit in Paris. It has plenty of places to eat from kebabs to French cuisine. There is plenty of places to have beer, wine or a coffee. Great place to wander around.