How about a splash of history? The Fischtorbrunnen stands here. It marks the spot where Mainz’s story meets the Rhine.
The Fischtorbrunnen is more than just a fountain. It is a landmark. It sits between the Rhine’s edge and the majestic Mainz Cathedral. The Fischtorbrunnen invites you to pause. Passersby often take a break at its edge.
Rudolf Schreiner, an architect, designed this fountain. The Fischtorbrunnen was erected in 1930 and 1931. Schreiner also planned the Fichteplatz settlement. He created the war memorial on the Windmühlenberg.
Locals fondly call the Fischtorbrunnen “Quellmänner un Hering”. This means “Quellmänner and herring” in the local dialect. “Quellmänner” refers to Pellkartoffeln. These are potatoes boiled in their skins. The fountain’s stone spheres resemble these potatoes. They were once a simple, common dish.
The Rhine has always been vital for Mainz. Fishing was a major occupation. Ferries linked the riverbanks. The nearby Fischergasse, or Fishermen’s Lane, once housed fish shops. Fresh fish was sold there. It was an affordable staple. House signs in Fischergasse still tell of this lively past.
Notice how the Fischtorbrunnen aligns with the Dom. It also aligns with the Rhine. The fountain highlights the river’s long-standing importance. The Rhine provided food and work. Fishermen docked their boats here. The Fischtorbrunnen is a reminder of this heritage.
During events like the Johannismarkt, the Fischtorbrunnen becomes part of the celebration. Booths and rides surround it then.
Look closely at the playful fish. They leap over stone spheres. Water gushes from openings. It arcs into the fountain’s basin. This cheerful design brings joy. It offers cool refreshment in summer. Children especially love the Fischtorbrunnen’s refreshing spray.
Keep an eye out for the Mainzelmännchen traffic lights. They now shine red and green at Fischtorplatz for pedestrians.
The Fischtorbrunnen offers a perfect spot to rest. Enjoy a break after exploring the city. Or maybe you need it during a stroll along the Rhine. The Lauterenviertel surrounds the Fischtorbrunnen.
Mainz boasts many beautiful fountains. A walk to see them is worthwhile. From the Neustadt to the Rhine and the Altstadt. Don’t miss the Leichhofbrunnen. Consider a fountain tour.
So, remember the Fischtorbrunnen. Think of the “Quellmänner un Hering”. The Fischtorbrunnen is a symbol of Mainz’s bond with the Rhine. It is a refreshing piece of history.