Beneath our feet flows a hidden river. That’s right beneath the Elterleinplatz lies the covered stream of the Als. Above it stands the Alszauberbrunnen.
The Alszauberbrunnen is more than just a fountain. It is a monument to the Als river itself. It honors Viennese music and Hernalser Alsegger wine. This fountain has a story of creation and recreation.
Let’s step back to June 5, 1932. The original Alszauberbrunnen was unveiled. Karl Philipp designed it. The Hernals population commissioned it. The fountain featured almost life-sized metal figures. They depicted Johann Schrammel, Paul Fiebrich, Alfred Rondorf and Willi Strohmayer each holding their instruments. Johann Schrammel and Paul Fiebrich both played violins. Alfred Rondorf played the guitar. Willi Strohmayer played the harmonica. These musicians were placed above the Alsbach stream bed.
Sadly, the original figures did not survive the Second World War. In 1943 they were melted down for the war effort. The fountain stood without its musicians for many years.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 1981 sculptor Heriberth Rath created new bronze figures. He based his work on 40-centimeter-tall plaster models. These models were preserved in the Bezirksmuseum Hernals. In 1982 City Councilor Helmut Zilk re-dedicated the Alszauberbrunnen.
Today we see the result of that restoration. The Alszauberbrunnen features a round stone basin. A central pedestal rises from it. Putti figures stand on the pedestal. Around the base sit the bronze figures of the Schrammel quartet. They are arranged with their instruments.
The Alszauberbrunnen stands as a testament to Viennese culture. It connects music, water, and wine. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our heritage. It is a landmark that is under monument protection. As you look at this charming fountain remember its journey. It started with Karl Philipp’s vision. It was reborn through Heriberth Rath’s artistry. The Alszauberbrunnen is a symbol of Vienna’s enduring spirit.