Louis XII Square and Fountain

As with many spots in Blois, Louis XII Square is a place where people meet and socialize. Laid out as early as 1825, with a vegetable market on one side and the city theater on the other, the square is home to one of the last remnants of the city’s 13th-century water supply system. The impressive Arsis Fountain, as it was first known, was renamed Louis XII Fountain in the 19th century. It was moved and restored in 1893, and listed as a historical monument in 1840. Nearly a century later, it miraculously survived the World War II bombing raids that ravaged the city center and was restored for the last time in 1988. Ever heard the old saying that goes something like: “If there is magic on the planet, it is contained in water”? This simple truth truly shines here. Believe it or not, what makes Louis XII Square and its fountain so special is their hidden historical importance, which is often overlooked. You see, a long time ago, we’re talking centuries back, clean water was a precious commodity – a luxury to which many didn’t have access. The thing is, there weren’t many fountains, so those who happened to live near one were very lucky. Despite the ravages of time and the many ups and downs that Blois has seen over the years, the Louis XII Fountain stands tall at the heart of the town and continues to inspire artists. So you see, water fountains are often part of a city’s history. The next time you walk past one, take a moment to appreciate its importance.