The Peyra fountain

The Peyra Fountain adorns the Porte du Peyra

There are five city gates leading into Vence’s medieval district and its sights. The oldest and most impressive is the Porte de Peyra, which dates from the 14th century. Through this city gate you enter the charming square Place de Peyra.

Idyllic location at Place du Peyra

It is the city’s most idyllic place and here stands the beautiful urn-shaped fountain, which dates from 1822. It is probably the most photographed motif in Vence.

The first Peyra fountain dates from 1439 and was built by Ribellini. The present Peyra fountain, or the high fountain as it is also called, was created in 1822 by the architect Étienne Goby.

The Foux spring provides the good water

The water comes from the Foux spring, is drinkable and is wonderfully refreshing. This spring has supplied water to Vence since Roman times.

Until 1886, the Peyra Fountain – “the high” and the Fountain Basse – the “low fountain” on Place Antony Mars, were the only two fountains that supplied the inhabitants of Vence with drinking water.

Vence has more than 20 fountains

Today there are more than 20 fountains located around the city and every year in the month of May the fountains are celebrated with flower decorations in what is called “Fête des fontaines”

By Tommy Sverre – 2022