Hannakenbrunnen

Amidst the bustling city of Vienna, nestled near the historic Maria am Gestade church, lies the enigmatic Hannakenbrunnen. This unassuming fountain holds a secret, a tale woven into the very fabric of its stone. The Hannakenbrunnen was unveiled on December 10, 1937. It was designed by architect Hubert Matuschek and sculpted by Rudolf Schmidt. The fountain’s centerpiece is a block-like sculpture depicting a rather peculiar scene: two men carrying a third, injured figure, accompanied by a dog, a jug, and some leafy tendrils. Look closely at the base of the sculpture. You’ll notice fish heads, each serving as a waterspout, adding a touch of whimsy to the otherwise serious scene. The Hannakenbrunnen is crafted from Lindabrunner conglomerate, a type of stone that lends a unique texture and color to the fountain. But the true story of the Hannakenbrunnen lies not just in its physical form, but in the legend it embodies. The sculptor, Rudolf Schmidt, drew inspiration from the tale of the “Hannakenkönig” or “Hannaken King.” This “king” was a barber who hailed from Hanna, a region in eastern Moravia. Legend has it that under the cover of darkness, this devious barber would intentionally trip passersby. Then, he would offer his services to treat their injuries, profiting from their misfortune. The sculpture captures this act of deception, immortalizing the dubious “Hannaken King” in stone. So, the next time you find yourself near the Hannakenbrunnen, take a moment to appreciate not only its artistic beauty but also the intriguing story it tells. A story of a cunning barber, a dark legend, and a fountain that stands as a silent reminder of Vienna’s rich and sometimes quirky past.