Located in the axis of the transept of Saint-Paul Cathedral in Liège and set back from rue Cathédrale and rue Pont d'Avroy, the Fountain of the Virgin, traditionally called by many Liège residents "fountain of lions", sits at the entrance of Island Vinâve. It is crowned by a magnificent Virgin and Child, one of the most beautiful works of Jean Del Cour (1631-1707), famous Baroque sculptor from Liège.
The fountain, dating from the second half of the 17th century and remodeled in the 19th century, is made up of a large square basin with rounded corners and placed on a large stone step.
Four lying lions overcome the corners of the basin and spit water into the shells located below.
In the center of the basin, a square pillar serves as a support for the bronze statue of the Virgin and Child. The door decorated with a bas-relief is also the work of Jean Del Cour.
The fountain originally built (1695-1696) on the Cathedral Square and made of marble, was rebuilt in 1854, in Vinâve d'Ile, by the architect Rémont, in small granite. The monument was classified by royal decree in 1936.
The restoration of this fountain, an emblematic monument of Liège and a popular stopover for all Liège residents, has been necessary for several years. This identical intervention aimed to ensure the sustainability of the work.
A complete dismantling of the building was therefore necessary in order to ensure a new concrete foundation and to restore the four-step small granite step. The bronzes were also completely restored in workshops. The restoration work took place from May 2015 to August 2016. The inauguration took place on September 20, 2016.
Translated by Google •
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!