The Fountain in the Eyes - Spa

The Fountain of the Eyes is located on the path that connects Hansterstraat with Promenade Reickem .

The water that feeds the fountain is mostly underground, except at one point in the Fagne Lolo , where it comes close to the surface and forms a marshy pond; from this point it goes underground again.

Not so long ago it enjoyed a certain reputation for its effectiveness in preventing and treating eye diseases. After a brief analysis it was found that no element could claim this action. This water is particularly remarkable for its low mineral content : it is very slightly alkaline; when evaporated to dryness it gives only a residue of 0.03 grams per liter, in which calcium chloride, sulphate and carbonate are present. No iron is found.

In 1954 Dr. Delneuville said that the "Fontaine aux Yeux" (Eye Fountain) was more or less abandoned , but it was once very popular. Old Spadois told us that on their way to the cemetery they would bathe their eyes in the water or drink from it .

The fountain was completely restored in 2015.

A final carte-vue, dated 1900, shows that the two stone pillars on either side of the fountain formerly supported a small rustic pavilion with a pyramidal slate roof, similar to the pavilions at Barisart and other fountains. The inscription "Fontaine aux yeux" ("Eye Fountain") can also be seen on the pavilion, which also has a bench next to it.

willem vandenameele