Recall a time when farm animals gathered around a village well. That is the essence of the Dorfbrunnen. Here in the heart of Groß-Buchholz the Dorfbrunnen stands. This fountain is more than just a water source. It is a testament to community spirit.
The Dorfbrunnen was erected at the end of the 20th century. It is adorned with sculptures of farm animals. These figures represent rural life. Bernd Maro a local artist created these sculptures.
The Pinkenburger Kreis initiated the creation of the Dorfbrunnen. This was part of a community project to revitalize the old village center of Groß-Buchholz. Locals raised around 30000 Euro through private donations. These donations made the Dorfbrunnen possible.
Originally Maro named his design Gezänk am Brunnen. A barking dog once stood opposite a cat. The cat arches its back on a stone pillar.
Look closely at the goat’s udder. You will find Maro’s signature and the year 1997. The Dorfbrunnen however only began operating in 1999. The fountain was designed to dispense drinking water. A push button on the three-meter-high pillar activates the water flow. Vandalism occasionally makes this impossible though.
Among the animals populating the Dorfbrunnen you will see a cat. There is also a drinking goat. A sleeping duck rests peacefully. A sow is surrounded by her piglets. One of the piglets was once stolen. Fortunately it was recovered.
The Pinkenburger Kreis is the local civic association. They offer guided tours through Groß-Buchholz. These tours are full of stories and anecdotes.
You will find the names of the Dorfbrunnen’s donors on a plaque. The Pinkenburger Kreis erected this plaque. Water for the Dorfbrunnen costs 500 Euro annually. The Pinkenburger Kreis relies on donations to cover this cost. In 2010 the association celebrated its 25th anniversary.
The Dorfbrunnen is a symbol of Groß-Buchholz. It reflects the community’s history. It brings people together and it reminds us of simpler times. So take a moment to appreciate this unique fountain. The Dorfbrunnen is a true gem of Hanover.