Antje-Brunnen

Did Antje ever imagine she’d be immortalized like this? Here at the Antje-Brunnen, we celebrate a walrus who became a Hamburg icon. The Antje-Brunnen, nestled between the Alstertal Einkaufszentrum and the S-Bahn station in Poppenbüttel, isn’t your typical Hamburg landmark. It’s a whimsical tribute to Antje, the beloved walrus of Hagenbeck’s Tierpark. Antje wasn’t just any walrus. She was the star of NDR’s interludes, captivating audiences with her charming antics. She’d rub her massive whiskers against the edge of her pool, hoist herself onto the rim, and dreamily scratch her shoulder with her flipper. When Antje died in 2003, Hamburg mourned. The city lost not just a walrus, but a piece of its heart. The Antje-Brunnen captures her playful spirit. The bronze statue of Antje sits on a small pedestal, spouting water that resembles her iconic whiskers. At her feet, a smaller figure also spouts water, adding to the fountain’s charm. This quirky monument, designed by Friedrich Müller-Belecke, was erected in 1991. It stands as a testament to Antje’s enduring legacy. The Antje-Brunnen is more than just a fountain; it’s a reminder of a time when a walrus could capture the hearts of a city. It’s a quirky, unexpected landmark that adds to the unique charm of Hamburg. So next time you’re in Poppenbüttel, take a moment to appreciate the Antje-Brunnen. Remember the walrus who became a star.