Can you hear the gentle splash? It is the Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen. Right here on Trammplatz, it stands before the Neues Rathaus in Hanover. This isn’t just any fountain. It’s a gift. The Rut- und Klaus-Bahlsen-Stiftung gave it to the city.
The Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen has a story. Before it, a water feature stood here. It was called Wasserblume. Wilhelm Brodthage installed it in 1961. By 1986, it was no longer working. The pipes had corroded.
For years, the spot remained empty. Even during Hanover’s 750th anniversary in 1991. Then, in 1993, the Rut- und Klaus Bahlsen Stiftung stepped in. They funded a new fountain.
In 1996, the Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen was complete. Ludger Gerdes from Düsseldorf designed it. Before the fountain, “Die große Familie” sculpture by Eugène Dodeigne stood here. It had to be moved for the fountain.
Gerdes created a unique space. The fountain features a cut chessboard pattern. Two fountains spray water high into the air. Eleven polished granite blocks surround the fountain. Look closely at one block. You will see the word “sondern” engraved. It means “separate”.
Gerdes saw “sondern” as vital. It contrasts with “verbinden” meaning “connect”. He considered it a basic social behavior. He wanted to highlight the right to be different. He did not want separation to turn into exclusion. The Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen shows this in an abstract way.
The fountain’s design encourages interaction. People can sit and chat near the water. On hot days, you can even cool off in the fountain. The chessboard pattern and the word “sondern” offer a deeper message. They represent those who feel apart from society. This combination makes the Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen special. It’s a significant part of Hanover’s public space.
The Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen replaced an older fountain from the 1960s. It had fallen into disrepair. Its location in front of the Neues Rathaus emphasizes openness. It invites everyone to gather.
Buildings communicate. They carry messages. The Rut- und Klaus-Bahlsen-Stiftung supports projects with symbolic meaning. They aim to improve the quality of life. They shape urban spaces. The Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen embodies this vision. It offers both beauty and a message.
So, take a moment to appreciate the Klaus-Bahlsen-Brunnen. It is more than just a fountain. It represents connection, separation, and the importance of public space.