Bern’s Fantastic Fountains

The monthly ArtSmart Roundtable brings together some of the best art-focused travel blogs to post on a common theme.  This month we are discussing Water!  Take a look at all the great stories at the bottom of the page.

The Zytglogge clock tower and a sculptural fountain in the historic center of Bern, Switzerland

So you already know that Bern is a beautiful city.  The well-preserved, historic center definitely earns this capital its UNESCO World Heritage designation.  But what I didn’t describe in detail last time were the incredible fountains.  These 16th century works of art add to the charm and atmosphere of the old town and are an integral part of the experience.

Fountains have always been a part of village life.

Medieval urban centers have always centered around fountains.  This public plumbing was essential for daily life and was visited by residents very frequently.  As a central gathering point, these fountains were places for news, gossip, business, and, very importantly, water.  Embellishing the fountains was a matter of civic pride and beautified the city.

The Knight Fountain just beside City Hall.

The eleven great fountain statues of Bern date to approximately 1542 – 1546.  This was a period of urban renewal and growth for the city.  Town leaders commissioned these statues which include allegorical figures, beloved warriors, and Biblical characters.  The figures were originally brightly painted and have been maintained in this state for centuries.  Located at the intersection of major streets or in squares, it is hard to miss these gorgeous fountains.

The Warrior Bear fountain is a tribute to the founding family of Bern (the House of Zähringen).

Mercenary, or Marksman Fountain comes with a hunting bear at the man’s feet.

The Samson Fountain recounts a scene from the Book of Judges in which Samson kills a lion.

The Justice Fountain – Note the portrait heads of a Pope, Sultan, Emperor, and Mayor at her feet.

The Anna Seiler Fountain was constructed to honor a 14th century noblewoman who provide for the construction of the first hospital in Bern in her Will.

The Ogre (or Child-Eater) Fountain is a strange sight just beside the tram station.  While there are several theories about the identity of this character, the net effect is to warn children to behave!

Messenger Fountain (Photo)

Moses Fountain (Photo)

Piper Fountain (Photo)

Of course not all the fountains have statues, but many of them are decorated.

Obelisk fountain on Kramgrasse

Capped by these impressive statues, the water spouts are simple by comparison but have their own entertaining flourishes.

Spout detail from the Ogre Fountain

Even the pedestals and lower sections of the statues are entertaining.  Details vary from the whimsical to the comical.

Bear with grapes detail from the Warrior Bear Fountain

Marching bears detail from the Ogre Fountain

The decorated fountains of old Bern were so unique.  I was captivated by their elegant Northern Renaissance design, playful subjects, and magnificent presence.  These statues must have been so important to the citizens of Bern and a great source of pride.  It’s one thing to draw your daily water from a city fountain; it’s something quite different and far more special to get this water from a fantastic work of art.

The decorative fountains really make Bern special.

For the rest of the August ArtSmart Roundtable, check out:

• Lizzie of Wanderarti – 7 of the Best Contemporary Art Galleries in Venice
• Murissa of Wanderful Traverler – Art As Seen From the Water
• Pal & Lydian of Art Weekenders – The Dutch and Water: A Complex Relationship

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