Fountains and Statues Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bern
With over 100 public fountains in the Old Town alone, Bern has a well-deserved reputation as the "City of Fountains". During medieval times, local life revolved around fountains as they provided water for residents and served as locations for news exchange and social gatherings.
Throughout history, Bernese residents have cherished their fountains and decorated them with elaborate sculptures. The latter often included Biblical characters, historical figures, and folklore heroes, often brightly painted and recounting stories of the city. Some of these statues are over four-and-a-half-centuries old.
We start our exploration of local fountains with the Fountain of Justice (Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen), featuring a blindfolded Lady Justice with a sword and scales, symbolizing the city's commitment to fairness.
Next in line is the Banner Carrier Fountain (Vennerbrunnen) celebrating the city's banner bearers and depicting a knight holding the Bernese flag. Nearby, Lenbrunnen is the oldest preserved spring monument in Bern.
The Mosesbrunnen showcases Moses with the Ten Commandments, symbolizing the city's adherence to moral values. Samson Fountain (or Simsonbrunnen), in turn, depicts Samson slaying a lion, symbolizing strength and heroism.
The Zahringen Fountain (Zahringerbrunnen) honors the city's founder, Duke Berthold V of Zahringen. The Child Eater Fountain (or Kindlifresserbrunnen), further ahead, is a rather unusual one, with an ogre eating children, possibly symbolizing the threat of child mortality in the past.
The Marksman Fountain (Sch眉tzenbrunnen) displays a marksman with a crossbow, commemorating the city's medieval archers. The Anna Seiler Fountain (Anna-Seiler-Brunnen) honors Anna Seiler, a legendary Bernese figure.
Lastly, the Bagpiper Fountain (Pfeiferbrunnen) showcases a bagpiper and a jester, representing the city's love for music and entertainment.
These fountains and statues are not just static pieces of art but living symbols of the city's values and traditions. If you ever have the chance to visit Bern, make sure to explore these locations to gain a deeper appreciation of the city's heritage. Put on your walking shoes and take a stroll through Bern's charming streets to let these sculptures tell you their stories. Quite interesting!
Throughout history, Bernese residents have cherished their fountains and decorated them with elaborate sculptures. The latter often included Biblical characters, historical figures, and folklore heroes, often brightly painted and recounting stories of the city. Some of these statues are over four-and-a-half-centuries old.
We start our exploration of local fountains with the Fountain of Justice (Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen), featuring a blindfolded Lady Justice with a sword and scales, symbolizing the city's commitment to fairness.
Next in line is the Banner Carrier Fountain (Vennerbrunnen) celebrating the city's banner bearers and depicting a knight holding the Bernese flag. Nearby, Lenbrunnen is the oldest preserved spring monument in Bern.
The Mosesbrunnen showcases Moses with the Ten Commandments, symbolizing the city's adherence to moral values. Samson Fountain (or Simsonbrunnen), in turn, depicts Samson slaying a lion, symbolizing strength and heroism.
The Zahringen Fountain (Zahringerbrunnen) honors the city's founder, Duke Berthold V of Zahringen. The Child Eater Fountain (or Kindlifresserbrunnen), further ahead, is a rather unusual one, with an ogre eating children, possibly symbolizing the threat of child mortality in the past.
The Marksman Fountain (Sch眉tzenbrunnen) displays a marksman with a crossbow, commemorating the city's medieval archers. The Anna Seiler Fountain (Anna-Seiler-Brunnen) honors Anna Seiler, a legendary Bernese figure.
Lastly, the Bagpiper Fountain (Pfeiferbrunnen) showcases a bagpiper and a jester, representing the city's love for music and entertainment.
These fountains and statues are not just static pieces of art but living symbols of the city's values and traditions. If you ever have the chance to visit Bern, make sure to explore these locations to gain a deeper appreciation of the city's heritage. Put on your walking shoes and take a stroll through Bern's charming streets to let these sculptures tell you their stories. Quite interesting!
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Fountains and Statues Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Fountains and Statues Walking Tour
Guide Location: Switzerland » Bern (See other walking tours in Bern)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Author: ChristineS
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Switzerland » Bern (See other walking tours in Bern)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Author: ChristineS
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen (Fountain of Justice)
- Vennerbrunnen (Banner Carrier Fountain)
- Lenbrunnen (Len Fountain)
- Mosesbrunnen (Moses Fountain)
- Simsonbrunnen (Samson Fountain)
- Zahringerbrunnen (Zahringen Fountain)
- Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain)
- Sch眉tzenbrunnen (Marksman Fountain)
- Anna-Seiler-Brunnen (Anna Seiler Fountain)
- Pfeiferbrunnen (Bagpiper Fountain)
1) Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen (Fountain of Justice) (must see)
In a city with over a hundred fountains, the Fountain of Justice (Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen) in Bern's Old City is a standout attraction. It is the only fountain in Bern that has maintained all its original design features and is recognized as a national cultural heritage site.
Hans Gieng's renowned statue of Lady Justice elevates the Fountain of Justice above other Bernese fountains in artistic value. This iconic figure was replicated across Switzerland until the mid-17th century. At Justice's feet, four smaller busts encircle the base: a Pope, an Emperor, a Sultan, and a Schultheiss. The Schultheiss鈥檚 gold chain of office is believed to have originally displayed Bern's emblem. Each figure's eyes are shut, symbolizing submission. They represent the Four Earthly Powers as outlined by Renaissance humanism: theocracy (Pope), monarchy (Emperor), autocracy (Sultan), and republic (Schultheiss).
The statue illustrates how Justice reigns supreme over all earthly rulers鈥攁 variation of the medieval motif of virtue conquering vice. Divine Justice was a popular topic in Reformation-era Bern. Reformers believed that practicing justice according to God's word was the highest responsibility of any authority, outweighing feudal rights. They used this argument, among others, to rationalize Bern's takeover of Vaud in 1536 from the Savoy dukes.
While the sword and scales are typical symbols of Lady Justice, the Bern statue's blindfold is a unique addition. This feature later became a widely recognized representation of Justice and a universal sign of equality before the law. The blindfold implies that justice should be served impartially, with decisions made through thoughtful reflection rather than external appearances. Gieng's Lady Justice embodies the principle of republican justice and served as a compelling public reminder of the Bernese Republic's legal authority.
Hans Gieng's renowned statue of Lady Justice elevates the Fountain of Justice above other Bernese fountains in artistic value. This iconic figure was replicated across Switzerland until the mid-17th century. At Justice's feet, four smaller busts encircle the base: a Pope, an Emperor, a Sultan, and a Schultheiss. The Schultheiss鈥檚 gold chain of office is believed to have originally displayed Bern's emblem. Each figure's eyes are shut, symbolizing submission. They represent the Four Earthly Powers as outlined by Renaissance humanism: theocracy (Pope), monarchy (Emperor), autocracy (Sultan), and republic (Schultheiss).
The statue illustrates how Justice reigns supreme over all earthly rulers鈥攁 variation of the medieval motif of virtue conquering vice. Divine Justice was a popular topic in Reformation-era Bern. Reformers believed that practicing justice according to God's word was the highest responsibility of any authority, outweighing feudal rights. They used this argument, among others, to rationalize Bern's takeover of Vaud in 1536 from the Savoy dukes.
While the sword and scales are typical symbols of Lady Justice, the Bern statue's blindfold is a unique addition. This feature later became a widely recognized representation of Justice and a universal sign of equality before the law. The blindfold implies that justice should be served impartially, with decisions made through thoughtful reflection rather than external appearances. Gieng's Lady Justice embodies the principle of republican justice and served as a compelling public reminder of the Bernese Republic's legal authority.
2) Vennerbrunnen (Banner Carrier Fountain)
The Banner Carrier Fountain (Vennerbrunnen) is situated on the Town Hall Square (Rathausplatz) within the Old City of Bern. This fountain is not only a Swiss Cultural Property of National Significance but is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old City of Bern. Strategically positioned in front of the old city hall, or Rathaus, the fountain symbolizes the significant military-political role of the "Venner," a title held in medieval Switzerland.
The Venner played a crucial role in local governance and defense, responsible for maintaining peace and leading troops into battle for their designated city sections. In Bern, the Venner held substantial influence and was integral to the city's operations. Connected to various guilds, Venners were selected from their respective guilds, and the position was one of the only two from which the Schulthei脽, or Lord Mayor, could be chosen.
The statue that graces the Banner Carrier Fountain was constructed in 1542 by the artist Hans Gieng. It depicts a Venner in full armor, proudly holding a banner. This figure has a rich history of resilience and restoration. During the invasion of the French "Grande Arm茅e" in 1798, the statue suffered damage when a soldier tore down its metal plate, resulting in the breaking off of its left underarm. For an extended period, this damage was neglected, and historical records indicate that the armored figure was once propped up on a cane rather than his sword. However, after many years and several relocations, the statue has been meticulously restored and now stands elegantly atop its Corinthian pillar on Town Hall Square, continuing to serve as a testament to Bern's rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Venner played a crucial role in local governance and defense, responsible for maintaining peace and leading troops into battle for their designated city sections. In Bern, the Venner held substantial influence and was integral to the city's operations. Connected to various guilds, Venners were selected from their respective guilds, and the position was one of the only two from which the Schulthei脽, or Lord Mayor, could be chosen.
The statue that graces the Banner Carrier Fountain was constructed in 1542 by the artist Hans Gieng. It depicts a Venner in full armor, proudly holding a banner. This figure has a rich history of resilience and restoration. During the invasion of the French "Grande Arm茅e" in 1798, the statue suffered damage when a soldier tore down its metal plate, resulting in the breaking off of its left underarm. For an extended period, this damage was neglected, and historical records indicate that the armored figure was once propped up on a cane rather than his sword. However, after many years and several relocations, the statue has been meticulously restored and now stands elegantly atop its Corinthian pillar on Town Hall Square, continuing to serve as a testament to Bern's rich historical and cultural heritage.
3) Lenbrunnen (Len Fountain)
The Lenbrunnen (Len Fountain) in the basement of the State Chancellery building is the oldest spring system and the oldest preserved historic monument in Bern. It is located in Bern's old town at Postgasse 68, entrance via the State Chancellery or Lenbrunneng盲ssli. The well system is no longer in operation, but it can be viewed freely during the office hours of the State Chancellery.
It is believed that the fountain was built around 1252 and was the only source of drinking water for the city at that time. The tower-like fountain with an estimated 7 脳 7 meter floor plan is also considered the oldest surviving building in the city. The fountain has a capacity of holding 15,000 liters of water, which is enough for the roughly 3,000 inhabitants living in Bern at that time. It is estimated that a person consumed only 3-5 liters of water a day in the Middle Ages.
Today the fountain has been carefully restored to its original condition. There are information boards, a building model and a hydrological model on site on site to tell visitors about the history of Len Fountain.
It is believed that the fountain was built around 1252 and was the only source of drinking water for the city at that time. The tower-like fountain with an estimated 7 脳 7 meter floor plan is also considered the oldest surviving building in the city. The fountain has a capacity of holding 15,000 liters of water, which is enough for the roughly 3,000 inhabitants living in Bern at that time. It is estimated that a person consumed only 3-5 liters of water a day in the Middle Ages.
Today the fountain has been carefully restored to its original condition. There are information boards, a building model and a hydrological model on site on site to tell visitors about the history of Len Fountain.
4) Mosesbrunnen (Moses Fountain)
The Moses Fountain (Mosesbrunnen) is a historic fountain located on M眉nsterplatz in the Old City of Bern. Constructed in 1544 and rebuilt in 1790-1791 after storm damage, it is recognized as a Swiss Cultural Property of National Significance and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old City of Bern. Its Louis XVI-style basin was designed by Niklaus Spr眉ngli.
The central statue depicts Moses presenting the Ten Commandments to the Tribes of Israel. Unique to Western art traditions of the Middle Ages, Moses is depicted with two horns on his head. This feature references Exodus 34:29-35, which describes Moses' face becoming radiant after meeting with God. The horns are interpreted as a metaphorical representation of radiance, symbolizing Moses' strength, authority, and glorification of God. This imagery stems from a translation of the Hebrew term "q膩ran" by Jerome, who saw horns as a metaphor for divine strength.
Moses is shown pointing towards the second commandment, which prohibits the creation of graven images. He faces the nearby Bern M眉nster Cathedral, which saw many images destroyed during the Reformation. The Moses Fountain remains a notable testament to religious history and artistic tradition.
The central statue depicts Moses presenting the Ten Commandments to the Tribes of Israel. Unique to Western art traditions of the Middle Ages, Moses is depicted with two horns on his head. This feature references Exodus 34:29-35, which describes Moses' face becoming radiant after meeting with God. The horns are interpreted as a metaphorical representation of radiance, symbolizing Moses' strength, authority, and glorification of God. This imagery stems from a translation of the Hebrew term "q膩ran" by Jerome, who saw horns as a metaphor for divine strength.
Moses is shown pointing towards the second commandment, which prohibits the creation of graven images. He faces the nearby Bern M眉nster Cathedral, which saw many images destroyed during the Reformation. The Moses Fountain remains a notable testament to religious history and artistic tradition.
5) Simsonbrunnen (Samson Fountain)
The Samson Fountain (Simsonbrunnen), located on Kramgasse in the Old City of Bern, is a historic and culturally significant monument. Constructed in 1544 by Hans Gieng, the fountain is declared a Swiss Cultural Property of National Significance. Additionally, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old City of Bern.
The fountain's central figure is the biblical hero Samson, depicted in Roman attire, embodying the Renaissance-era valorization of strength. Dramatically, the statue shows Samson tearing apart the mouth of a lion, a direct reference to the biblical story from Judges 14:5-20, where Samson is granted immense strength under the vow of abstaining from alcohol and never cutting his hair. This divine gift is illustrated as Samson overpowers the lion on his way to marry a Philistine woman, an act that later prompts a conflict with the Philistines.
A noteworthy detail on the fountain is the inclusion of a weapon and butcher鈥檚 tools on Samson鈥檚 belt, hinting at the fountain鈥檚 likely patronage by the Butcher鈥檚 Guild. This connection is underscored by the fountain's early nickname, the "Butcher鈥檚 Fountain," a title it held until it was renamed to Samson Fountain about 150 years later. This renaming reflects a broader recognition of the fountain's thematic and artistic representation of Samson's story and its significance within the heritage of Bern.
The fountain's central figure is the biblical hero Samson, depicted in Roman attire, embodying the Renaissance-era valorization of strength. Dramatically, the statue shows Samson tearing apart the mouth of a lion, a direct reference to the biblical story from Judges 14:5-20, where Samson is granted immense strength under the vow of abstaining from alcohol and never cutting his hair. This divine gift is illustrated as Samson overpowers the lion on his way to marry a Philistine woman, an act that later prompts a conflict with the Philistines.
A noteworthy detail on the fountain is the inclusion of a weapon and butcher鈥檚 tools on Samson鈥檚 belt, hinting at the fountain鈥檚 likely patronage by the Butcher鈥檚 Guild. This connection is underscored by the fountain's early nickname, the "Butcher鈥檚 Fountain," a title it held until it was renamed to Samson Fountain about 150 years later. This renaming reflects a broader recognition of the fountain's thematic and artistic representation of Samson's story and its significance within the heritage of Bern.
6) Zahringerbrunnen (Zahringen Fountain)
The Z盲hringen Fountain (Z盲hringerbrunnen) is an iconic cultural monument located on Kramgasse in the Old City of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fountain stands as a testament to Bern's medieval heritage and its founders, the Z盲hringen family. Erected in 1535, the Z盲hringen Fountain was constructed to commemorate Berchtold von Z盲hringer, the founder of Bern, who, according to local legend, chose the location for the city after hunting down a bear on the Aare peninsula.
Dominating the fountain is a statue of a bear, the heraldic symbol of Bern, clad in full armor. This bear holds a shield and a banner, both adorned with the golden lion on a red background, the emblem of the Z盲hringen family. At the bear's feet is a smaller bear cub, which adds a touch of charm to the ensemble by seemingly munching on grapes.
The original basin of the fountain, dated 1542, was octagonal and bore various inscriptions including "Protege Nos Domine" (Protect us, Lord) and "Soli Deo Gloria" (Glory to God alone). This basin was replaced in 1889 with a design replicating that of the Pfeiferbrunnen's basin, alongside refurbishments to the statue and column.
The Z盲hringen Fountain not only serves as a reminder of Bern's foundation and its symbolic bears but also as an artistic and cultural property of national significance, enriching the historical ambiance of the city's well-preserved medieval streetscape.
Dominating the fountain is a statue of a bear, the heraldic symbol of Bern, clad in full armor. This bear holds a shield and a banner, both adorned with the golden lion on a red background, the emblem of the Z盲hringen family. At the bear's feet is a smaller bear cub, which adds a touch of charm to the ensemble by seemingly munching on grapes.
The original basin of the fountain, dated 1542, was octagonal and bore various inscriptions including "Protege Nos Domine" (Protect us, Lord) and "Soli Deo Gloria" (Glory to God alone). This basin was replaced in 1889 with a design replicating that of the Pfeiferbrunnen's basin, alongside refurbishments to the statue and column.
The Z盲hringen Fountain not only serves as a reminder of Bern's foundation and its symbolic bears but also as an artistic and cultural property of national significance, enriching the historical ambiance of the city's well-preserved medieval streetscape.
7) Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain)
The Child Eater Fountain (Kindlifresserbrunnen) stands in the Granary Place in Bern and is one of the city's notable 16th-century fountains. Created between 1545 and 1546 by Hans Gieng, it replaced an earlier wooden fountain from the 15th century. Initially called Plaza Fountain, the current name, Child Eater Fountain, was first used in 1666. In Swiss German, "Kindli" is a diminutive form of "Kind," meaning child, and thus the name translates to "Fountain of the Eater of Little Children."
The fountain's sculpture depicts a seated ogre, devouring a naked child with a sack of other children by his side. The ogre is adorned with a pointed hat resembling a Jewish one, leading to speculation that the figure could represent a Jew as part of an antisemitic blood libel. Other theories suggest it portrays the beast-like Krampus from Alpine folklore, who punishes misbehaving children, or the Greek Titan Cronus, who devoured his offspring.
An additional theory is that the ogre symbolizes an enemy threatening the Old Swiss Confederacy's eight cantons, represented by the eight children. This interpretation aligns with the fountain's base, which displays a frieze of armed bears, possibly designed by Hans Rudolf Manuel Deutsch, marching to war.
Despite these various interpretations, the true origin remains uncertain. The fountain might simply represent a carnival figure intended to frighten unruly children during Fastnacht, Switzerland's "Night of Fasting" festival. Regardless of its original purpose, the Child Eater Fountain has intrigued and terrified generations for almost 500 years. The fountain also features prominently in Jacques Chessex's novel L'Ogre (The Ogre).
The fountain's sculpture depicts a seated ogre, devouring a naked child with a sack of other children by his side. The ogre is adorned with a pointed hat resembling a Jewish one, leading to speculation that the figure could represent a Jew as part of an antisemitic blood libel. Other theories suggest it portrays the beast-like Krampus from Alpine folklore, who punishes misbehaving children, or the Greek Titan Cronus, who devoured his offspring.
An additional theory is that the ogre symbolizes an enemy threatening the Old Swiss Confederacy's eight cantons, represented by the eight children. This interpretation aligns with the fountain's base, which displays a frieze of armed bears, possibly designed by Hans Rudolf Manuel Deutsch, marching to war.
Despite these various interpretations, the true origin remains uncertain. The fountain might simply represent a carnival figure intended to frighten unruly children during Fastnacht, Switzerland's "Night of Fasting" festival. Regardless of its original purpose, the Child Eater Fountain has intrigued and terrified generations for almost 500 years. The fountain also features prominently in Jacques Chessex's novel L'Ogre (The Ogre).
8) Sch眉tzenbrunnen (Marksman Fountain)
The Marksman Fountain (Sch眉tzenbrunnen) is a historical fountain located in Bern. This iconic structure, originally constructed between 1527 and 1543, is emblematic of the rich cultural and communal history of the region. Initially replacing a wooden fountain from 1527 with a stone one, the fountain's focal point is a statue dating back to 1543. The statue depicts an armed rifleman, a standard bearer for the Society of Musketry, with a banner in his right hand and a sword in his left. Notably, a bear cub, symbolically positioned between the rifleman's legs, aims a rifle, adding a playful yet significant element to the composition.
Throughout its history, the Marksman Fountain has undergone several restorations and relocations. In 1558, repairs were necessary for the sword, and by 1670, the column and base of the fountain were replaced. Further enhancements in 1783/84 saw the replacement of the fountain basin and pedestal. The 20th century brought more changes with relocations in 1890 and 1939, the latter of which also included a 180-degree rotation of the fountain.
Today, the Marksman Fountain stands proudly in front of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), having found its permanent location after various movements. At its current spot, although the little bear's rifle aim is no longer accurate, it remains a point of historical curiosity and charm. This misalignment, however, carries less consequence as the Society to Shooting, which originally sponsored the fountain, was dismantled in 1799.
The Marksman Fountain serves not only as a piece of functional art but also as a narrative artifact that captures the essence of local traditions and communal life in historical Bern.
Throughout its history, the Marksman Fountain has undergone several restorations and relocations. In 1558, repairs were necessary for the sword, and by 1670, the column and base of the fountain were replaced. Further enhancements in 1783/84 saw the replacement of the fountain basin and pedestal. The 20th century brought more changes with relocations in 1890 and 1939, the latter of which also included a 180-degree rotation of the fountain.
Today, the Marksman Fountain stands proudly in front of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), having found its permanent location after various movements. At its current spot, although the little bear's rifle aim is no longer accurate, it remains a point of historical curiosity and charm. This misalignment, however, carries less consequence as the Society to Shooting, which originally sponsored the fountain, was dismantled in 1799.
The Marksman Fountain serves not only as a piece of functional art but also as a narrative artifact that captures the essence of local traditions and communal life in historical Bern.
9) Anna-Seiler-Brunnen (Anna Seiler Fountain)
Anna Seiler Fountain (Anna-Seiler-Brunnen) is a historical fountain located on Marktgasse in the Old City of Bern. It stands at the upper end of the street and commemorates Anna Seiler, the founder of Bern's first hospital. The fountain, a Swiss Cultural Property of National Significance, forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bern's Old City.
Constructed in 1545, the fountain features a statue of Anna Seiler dressed in a blue gown, pouring water into a small dish, symbolizing her nurturing spirit and commitment to healthcare. The pillar supporting the statue originated from the ancient Roman town of Aventicum, now Avenches.
Anna Seiler bequeathed her house to the city in her will on November 29, 1354, specifying that it be transformed into a hospital with 13 beds and two attendants. Known initially as the Seilerin Spital, it later moved to the Dominican Order's Saint Michael's Island monastery in 1531 and was renamed the Inselspital. The modern Inselspital remains a thriving healthcare institution with about 6,000 employees, treating approximately 220,000 patients annually. Anna Seiler Fountain serves as a testament to Seiler's legacy and her lasting impact on healthcare in Bern.
Constructed in 1545, the fountain features a statue of Anna Seiler dressed in a blue gown, pouring water into a small dish, symbolizing her nurturing spirit and commitment to healthcare. The pillar supporting the statue originated from the ancient Roman town of Aventicum, now Avenches.
Anna Seiler bequeathed her house to the city in her will on November 29, 1354, specifying that it be transformed into a hospital with 13 beds and two attendants. Known initially as the Seilerin Spital, it later moved to the Dominican Order's Saint Michael's Island monastery in 1531 and was renamed the Inselspital. The modern Inselspital remains a thriving healthcare institution with about 6,000 employees, treating approximately 220,000 patients annually. Anna Seiler Fountain serves as a testament to Seiler's legacy and her lasting impact on healthcare in Bern.
10) Pfeiferbrunnen (Bagpiper Fountain)
The Bagpiper Fountain (Pfeiferbrunnen) is a celebrated piece of Bern's historical and cultural heritage, situated in the charming Old City. This 16th-century fountain, which was crafted by Swiss Renaissance sculptor Hans Gieng in 1545-46, stands out as one of the city鈥檚 most original and vibrant fountains. The design of the Bagpiper statue was inspired by a 1514 woodcut by the renowned German artist Albrecht D眉rer.
Characterized by its colorful figures, the fountain depicts a cheerful scene where a bagpiper, accompanied by a golden goose and a small monkey playing the flageolet, jovially performs. This assembly is symbolic, celebrating themes of cheerfulness, life, music, dance, and culinary delights. Such themes were typical of the era and resonated with the social activities around fountains, which were vital communal spots in medieval Bern.
Originally, the Pfeiferbrunnen was located in front of Gasthaus zum Kreuz, a guesthouse that catered to traveling minstrels who were the entertainers of the medieval period, often sharing songs and stories of far-off places and events. The choice of a bagpiper as the fountain's centerpiece is likely a nod to these minstrels and the stories they brought with them.
The current basin of the fountain dates back to 1889, and in 1919, the fountain was moved to its present location at Spitalgasse 21, a shift from its original placement. This relocation was part of broader urban adjustments, yet the fountain has continued to be a prominent cultural landmark.
The Bagpiper Fountain is not just an artistic expression; it's also listed as a Swiss heritage site of national significance. This status underscores the fountain's importance in Swiss cultural heritage, preserving its historical value and continuing to be a point of interest and enjoyment for both locals and visitors in Bern.
Characterized by its colorful figures, the fountain depicts a cheerful scene where a bagpiper, accompanied by a golden goose and a small monkey playing the flageolet, jovially performs. This assembly is symbolic, celebrating themes of cheerfulness, life, music, dance, and culinary delights. Such themes were typical of the era and resonated with the social activities around fountains, which were vital communal spots in medieval Bern.
Originally, the Pfeiferbrunnen was located in front of Gasthaus zum Kreuz, a guesthouse that catered to traveling minstrels who were the entertainers of the medieval period, often sharing songs and stories of far-off places and events. The choice of a bagpiper as the fountain's centerpiece is likely a nod to these minstrels and the stories they brought with them.
The current basin of the fountain dates back to 1889, and in 1919, the fountain was moved to its present location at Spitalgasse 21, a shift from its original placement. This relocation was part of broader urban adjustments, yet the fountain has continued to be a prominent cultural landmark.
The Bagpiper Fountain is not just an artistic expression; it's also listed as a Swiss heritage site of national significance. This status underscores the fountain's importance in Swiss cultural heritage, preserving its historical value and continuing to be a point of interest and enjoyment for both locals and visitors in Bern.
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