Behold the Neptunbrunnen a masterpiece of bronze and granite. This isn’t just any fountain. It’s a monument to a bygone era a testament to Berlin’s rich history. Originally gracing the Schlossplatz in front of the Berliner Schloss the Neptunbrunnen held a place of honor. It was a gift from the city to Kaiser Wilhelm II. The fountain’s creation dates back to 1891. Reinhold Begas a renowned sculptor designed it. He was heavily influenced by Baroque Italian and French fountains. Think Piazza Navona in Rome or the Latona Fountain in Versailles.
The Neptunbrunnen is immense. Its diameter spans 18 meters. The central figure Neptune stands tall at 10 meters. The fountain’s four female figures represent Prussia’s major rivers. The Elbe the Rhine the Vistula and the Oder. Notice the details each river goddess carries symbols of her region. Fruits and corn for the Elbe fishnets and grapes for the Rhine.
But the Neptunbrunnen has faced challenges. World War II left it unharmed but post-war thieves damaged its bronze figures. The destruction of the Berliner Schloss in 1951 led to the fountain’s removal. The original basin was destroyed. After meticulous restoration the Neptunbrunnen found a new home in 1969. It now sits between the St Mary’s Church and the Rotes Rathaus. A new basin of red Jawlensker granite was created.
Interestingly the fountain was nicknamed “Forckenbecken” by Berliners. This was a playful jab at Max von Forckenbeck the mayor during its inauguration. The trident held by Neptune resembles a fork. There’s even a legend that the sculptor was praised for creating Berlin’s first women who “held the edge”.
Today the Neptunbrunnen stands as a symbol of Berlin’s resilience. It has survived war destruction and relocation. It continues to captivate visitors with its artistic beauty and historical significance. The debate continues whether to return it to the Schlossplatz. However for now we appreciate it in its current location a majestic reminder of Berlin’s enduring spirit.