Fontaine Moussue (Mossy Fountain), Aix-en-Provence

Mossy Fountain (Fontaine Moussue) is a classic fountain designed by the architect Jean-Claude Rambot. It is known locally as the Mossy Fountain, the Big Green Sponge, or the Hot Water Fountain.

The thermal fountain was built in 1667. It was the first fountain built on the landmark Mirabeau Boulevard. It underwent a major reconstruction in 1687 and 1734.

The moss that grows on the fountain is due to the heated water. As the Mossy Fountain is the only fountain fed from the Thermal Baths, its temperature remains 64 degrees throughout the year.

The fountain's water is not drinkable, still, it can be used for other purposes. Through the beginning of the 20th century, locals used heated water to wash clothing. Water was also regularly taken from the fountain in buckets for washing walkways and steps. Some used the water from the Mossy Fountain to feed their plants.

The Mossy Fountain has suffered from calcification, which makes the design difficult to see. It is believed that the shapes under the limestone deposits are four children holding a basin for the water.