Pendulum Fountain

Historic site and monument

Place de la Nation-Charles de Gaulle
38460 Crémieu

It was built in 1823 to replace the Augustins well. It was erected in honour of the Duke of Angoulême, who had just distinguished himself in the victorious expedition to Spain.
It has been listed as a historic monument since 1980.

In the early 19th century, the whole town of Crémieu was modernising, and so it was only natural that
the old Augustinian well should be replaced by this new fountain. Its more modern pendulum system
made drawing water not only easier but also safer. It was financed in part by the proceeds from the sale
of property requisitioned in 1814. A dedication to the triumph of the Duke of Angoulême’s claim to the Spanish throne
has now disappeared, if indeed it was ever made… Nevertheless, this rare example of a
pendulum fountain was inaugurated with full honours on 23 November 1823 and has been listed as a
historic monument since 30 December 1980.