Situated high on the hill, Grimaud often lacked water.
The village’s two wells and the several springs in the surroundings were not enough for the village’s 900 inhabitants and livestock.
In the 16th century, water from an abundant spring a few kilometres from the village was piped to the village’s fountain, situated near the church. Unfortunately, this system only lasted a century.
Only a few traces remain, including the Pont des Fées (fairy bridge). As a result the town lacked water again until 1884, when thanks to a steam machine, the groundwater on the plain was pumped to the village to supply the houses.
This fountain was built in 1886 on a new square to commemorate the end of the work and the arrival of water in the village.
A dedication on the back of the edifice expresses the village’s gratitude to the town which made the construction possible. It was actually renovated in 2018.
Grimaud Village Historique Var 108
Grimaud Village Historique Var 109The Rue des Hoirs which leads to Place Neuve was named Rue des Orts in bygone days (from the Provençal word ‘ort’ which means garden). You can still see pretty gardens on either side of the street.
To relive the saga of Grimaud’s water supply, there’s an augmented reality tour you can go on!
Choose to do this tour either on-site or from the comfort of your sofa at home, and find out how Grimaud managed to pipe water to its fountains without having a natural source of water in the village.
This work of art was inaugurated on 14th July 2019, is made from beautiful ironwork and boasts a roof made from the finest wood.
Singers, dancers and artists come to perform at the bandstand for the various events organised by the Tourist Office and local council.
Grimaud Village Historique Var 106
Grimaud Village Historique Var 107
