Legend says that when a Ligurian princess chose her husband. She offered water to a Greek navigator named Protis. Their union birthed Marseille. Now standing before La f\u00e9e du vieux moulin you see Gyptis. This fairy embodies Marseille’s openness to the Mediterranean. She symbolizes diverse cultures.
La f\u00e9e du vieux moulin is part of “Le Chemin des f\u00e9es”. It is a path of five sculptures. These sculptures mark the presence of the Huveaune River. This river begins in the Massif de la Sainte Baume. It flows into the Mediterranean Sea at Marseille.
The sculpted female figures offer a modern take on the river’s history. These fairies draw inspiration from legends linked to the valley. They tell tales of spirits nymphs and mother goddesses.
These fairies appear dreamy active melancholic or determined. They connect the past and present. They encourage discovering the Huveaune through stories. They promote new ways of living with the river. “Le Chemin des f\u00e9es” aims to raise awareness. It highlights environmental issues affecting the river. It questions water management for the future.
Artists Lucy + Jorge Orta imagined La f\u00e9e du vieux moulin. They saw her as a serene Gyptis awaiting a meeting. She embodies nature. She welcomes her guests. In the water cycle Gyptis represents condensation. This is where water vapor turns into dew. She embodies unity and brotherhood.
La f\u00e9e du vieux moulin was installed in October 2012. It was part of the Fete de l’Huveaune celebration. The sculpture is made of polychrome aluminum.
Sadly in recent years, La f\u00e9e du vieux moulin disappeared. It was likely stolen. It stood over three meters tall on a metal pole. The graceful statue was a favorite among park visitors. It prompted a police investigation. Locals were asked to provide information about its disappearance. The association hoped to gather funds to recreate it. They also planned to improve its anchoring system.
La f\u00e9e du vieux moulin represents a connection. It links the community with its environment. It encourages better living together. Though once stolen the spirit of Gyptis remains. She is an invitation. She promotes environmental awareness. She embodies unity. She represents the welcoming heart of Marseille.