Before you stands the Hofbrunnen. It is now called Neptunbrunnen. This impressive fountain has a rich history in Berlin.
The Neptunbrunnen was designed by Reinhold Begas. It was constructed in 1891. The fountain prominently features the Roman god Neptune. He stands in the center.
Around Neptune are four women. These women represent Prussia’s main rivers. They are the Elbe, Rhine, Vistula and Oder. The Elbe figure holds fruits and corn. The Rhine has a fishnet and grapes. The Vistula carries wooden blocks. These symbolize forestry. The Oder displays goats and animal skins. Today the Vistula lies entirely in Poland. The Oder now forms the border between Germany and Poland.
Originally the Neptunbrunnen stood at the Schlossplatz. This was near the Berliner Schloss. However, the fountain was removed in 1951. This happened when the palace was demolished.
The Neptunbrunnen was restored. In 1969 it was moved to its current location. You can find it between St. Mary’s Church and the Rotes Rathaus.
The Hofbrunnen is quite large. It has a diameter of 18 meters. Its height reaches 10 meters. This makes it a striking landmark.
The open space was created by war. It sits between the Red Town Hall and St. Mary’s Church. Neptune with his trident still sits enthroned. He is on the new fountain bowl of red granite.
The Berlin Neptune Fountain measures ten meters high. This is measured by the trident. Restored female figures surround his feet. They symbolize the rivers Rhine, Elbe, Oder and Vistula. Many other figures play in the fountain. Lobsters, crabs, fish and other creatures cavort around the base.
There was also a well-known Neptunbrunnen in Breslau. Locals nicknamed it “Gabeljürge” or “Georgie Fork.” Sadly, it was destroyed during World War II. The city was later transferred to Poland.
In 2013 there was an unusual event. A member of the Berlin Police Force shot an armed man. This happened before the fountain. The man was nude and holding a knife. He was believed to be mentally disturbed.
The Hofbrunnen continues to be a significant site. It is a testament to Berlin’s history. It offers both beauty and stories to those who visit.