Neptune Fountain

The Neptune Fountain built between 1679 and 1681 is the largest basin of Versailles Castle. The Neptune Fountain is part of the park of the palace of Versailles that leads to the Water Walk and the Dragon Fountain. It is also called « Pool Below the Dragon » following an event in connection with the so-called Dragon Fountain, at the time of Louis XIV.

The huge Neptune Fountain started in the North. However, since it was lower than the surrounding field, a retaining wall was built in 1678 to contain the water that would fill the fountain. Le Nôtre gave it its present shape. The fountain is like a huge mirror where nature is reflected. In 1682, the King wanted to decorate it, 22 stone vases -the work of several sculptors - were added to the fountain. Waterfalls also adorn the fountain in addition to the 44 jets of water of 21 meters, hence enhancing its charm. This Neptune Fountain is a true «masterpiece in hydraulic engineering » in gardens. However, the Fountain as we know it today was not completed at the time of Louis XV.

This impressive masterpiece was made with molten lead, featuring Neptune the god of the sea with his trident and Amphitrite in a coral branch on their throne. The sculptures of the Fountain were inaugurated in August 11, 1741 and is so admired by visitors. The water jets dance on the lead sculptures are impressive. The Neptune Fountain has 33 fountains on 2 levels, 99 jets of water, 22 terraced fountains, 5 wall fountains, 6 fountains of 21 meters on the lower waterbody, three statues: Berenice, Faustina and Fame writing the history of the King. A bench of 7000 seats is installed each year to allow visitors to enjoy the dances of the jets of water found on the sculptures of the Netpune Fountaint with background the Château de Versailles. Music and dance performances take place every year on the floating and modular stage set at the center of the fountain.

Address: Allée des Chevaliers, Château de Versailles 78000 Versailles

Bontourism®, the Art of Traveling to the Neptune Fountain​