LA FONTAINE DU JARDIN DES OLIVES

Description

Built in 1828, in the heart of the enclosed garden to the south-east of the abbey palace, this fountain is now adorned with a cast-iron putto, enhanced with gold detailing. This little figure blows into a golden conch, from which a thin stream of water gushes out, adding a poetic touch to the site.

The fountain was originally decorated with a bronze statue created by Denis Foyatier in 1898, depicting the last days of Herculaneum, as shown on old postcards. Unfortunately, this work was removed and melted down during the Vichy regime, marking a tragic period in its history.

Today, this cast-iron putto perpetuates the elegance and history of this unique site, a symbol of the past and of local memory.