Marvel at the Georgsbrunnen a testament to Freiburg’s enduring spirit. This isn’t just any fountain. It stands proudly in the southwestern corner of Münsterplatz. For centuries its location has quenched the thirst of Freiburgers. The Georgsbrunnen boasts a history as rich and layered as the Black Forest itself.
Its story begins long ago. Freiburg’s fortunate location at the mouth of the Dreisam valley ensured a plentiful water supply. Unlike many cities Freiburg didn’t need deep wells. The natural filtration of the land provided ample fresh water. This led to the prevalence of above-ground fountains like the Georgsbrunnen not the deep shaft wells common elsewhere.
The first public fountain on this very spot appeared in the 14th century. It was one of the original planned locations for public water access. A system of wooden pipes called Deichele fed the fountain. These unique pipes were essentially hollowed-out fir tree trunks. They carried water from the ‘Mösle’ beneath Bromberg across the Schwabentor bridge.
The original fountain was replaced in the early 16th century. It lasted until the mid-19th century. Complaints about its condition then mounted. Residents voiced concerns about cracked basins insufficient water flow and decaying parts. Damage stemmed from people placing containers on the basin grinding tools and washing food there all against regulations.
The Georgsbrunnen’s frequent depiction in historical city views is fascinating. Gregorius Sickinger’s large Freiburg plan of 1589 clearly shows the fountain its trough two pipes and the statue. The renovation in 1845 coincided with widespread fountain upgrades in Freiburg. The city was transitioning from wooden Deichele to cast-iron pipes and a central reservoir. Franz Sales Glänz designed the 1845 version executed by Karl Widmann. It featured an octagonal basin and an ornate column. It was initially called the Leopoldsbrunnen after the Grand Duke who inaugurated it. But this version too faced criticism.
By 1935 the fountain’s red sandstone basin had deteriorated. Architect Carl Anton Meckel masterminded a reconstruction drawing on existing parts and a lithograph from 1826. He chose durable Mainthaler shell limestone. His mark graces the column a nod to medieval builders’ practice.
Today’s Georgsbrunnen reflects Meckel’s vision. Four ribs with hollows form the column. They transition into canopies adorned with cross-flowers. A central finial supports a gilded St George statue a replica crafted by Wilhelm von Kittlitz. Four ornate spouts provide the water. The dedication to St George Freiburg’s patron saint stems from medieval customs. Choosing a patron beyond church saints provided additional protection. It is believed Freiburg adopted St. George following its liberation in 1368. The city’s red cross on a white field emblem echoes St George’s iconography.
Remarkably the Georgsbrunnen largely survived the devastating 1944 air raid. While much of Freiburg’s old town was destroyed the fountain stood strong a symbol of resilience. So raise a glass. To the enduring Georgsbrunnen a silent witness to Freiburg’s rich and varied history.