Have you noticed the gentle splashing? It comes from the Springbrunnen in der Obstorangerie. This fountain marks a special place, a tribute to historical garden art.
The Springbrunnen in der Obstorangerie was long out of service. But in 2018, it was brought back to life. This coincided with an exhibition of historical dwarf fruit trees. These trees were displayed in “Scherben”. Scherben means shards in German.
Let’s talk about these “Scherben”. The term “Obstorangerie” appeared in the 18th century. It was inspired by the usual Orangerie. Orangeries are wintering houses for frost-sensitive citrus plants and other exotic plants. They also refer to the collection of such plants. The Würzburg Obstorangerie exclusively features local trees. These trees grow in miniature form in clay pots or shards.
In 2007, garden master Gerald Schreier started to reassemble this Orangerie. In 2018, Würzburg attracted many interested people. This was due to the Bavarian State Garden Show. Schreier presented his most beautiful dwarf fruit trees. The Bavarian Palace Administration had another attraction to show. This was in addition to the lush flowerbeds. They were in the south and east gardens. There was also the espalier in the kitchen garden. And the potted citrus trees stood in front of the Orangerie building.
The green glazed pots are made following historical models. Only varieties cultivated by Johann Prokop Mayer were allowed. Mayer was a court gardener from 1770 until his death in 1804. He cherished them in the Residence garden. He also described them in his three-volume book on fruit growing. The book is called “Pomona Franconica”. It included hand-colored copper engravings. Mayer came from Bohemia. As a journeyman, he gained knowledge of artistic espalier in France. In Würzburg, he lined up several hundred fruit trees as trellises on the walls. He designed numerous garden plans. However, only some of them were implemented.
The Springbrunnen in der Obstorangerie now stands as a symbol. It represents the revival of this unique horticultural practice. The fountain’s water glistens. It reflects the care and dedication to preserving history. It also highlights the beauty of nature. Take a moment to appreciate this blend of art and nature. The Springbrunnen in der Obstorangerie and its miniature orchard offer a tranquil escape.