De Paarden-fontein

In the bustling heart of Amsterdam, the De Paarden-fontein stands as a quiet monument to a bygone era. This fountain, designed by the renowned architect H.P. Berlage, was originally intended as a watering place for horses. Imagine Amsterdam in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Horse-drawn carriages filled the streets. The De Paarden-fontein, with its low, sloping basin, provided much-needed refreshment for these hardworking animals. The fountain, located in Beursplein, was inaugurated on May 27, 1903. It features four cast-iron lampposts, adding a touch of elegance to its practical purpose. The De Paarden-fontein is made of hardstone, cast iron, and copper. The basin is approximately 0.45 meters high and 3 meters in diameter. The watersculpture itself reaches a height of around 4 meters. While horses no longer frequent Beursplein, the De Paarden-fontein remains. It stands as a reminder of a time when the pace of life was slower, and the city’s rhythm was dictated by the clip-clop of hooves. The square itself has seen significant renovations. In 2017, the Beursplein underwent a major facelift. A new underground bicycle parking facility was constructed, and the square was repaved with grey and red natural stone. The De Paarden-fontein, along with Berlage’s cast-iron lampposts, were carefully restored to their original locations. Today, the De Paarden-fontein is a protected Rijksmonument, a testament to its historical and architectural significance. It offers a unique glimpse into Amsterdam’s past, inviting us to imagine a time when horses were the kings of the road.