Located at the foot of the Cathedral of La Major, the Major Fountain is a rediscovered 19th-century treasure. Built in 1852, it once marked the connection between the cathedral’s podium and the harbor quays. Buried under reinforced concrete around 1950, during major urban development works around the cathedral and the Boulevard du Littoral, it was uncovered during the 2015 restoration of the Marchetti Street staircase and the Voûtes de la Major.

 
The fountain features an elegant design with three sculpted fish at its base and two cherubs holding the coats of arms of Marseille at the top. As a remnant of the city’s forgotten heritage, it reflects the 19th-century drive to beautify Marseille’s waterfront. Now carefully restored, it stands as a symbol of the area’s revival — and visitors are often left wondering whether water will be flowing when they arrive.