See this bronze maiden? This is the Manzù Fountain. It’s more than just a pretty face. It’s a story of Augsburg’s history. A story of rebirth and resilience.
The Manzù Fountain stands on Königsplatz. This spot wasn’t always so graceful. Before this beautiful fountain there was the Gögginger Tor. It was a gate a part of Augsburg’s ancient walls. Then came the “Pilz” a round stone building. It served as a bus stop and meeting place. The Pilz disappeared in 1977. The city planned a kiosk. But the plans never happened. That’s when the idea for the Manzù Fountain emerged.
The year was 1985. Augsburg celebrated its 2000th anniversary. The Augsburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry wanted a new fountain. Many local businesses helped fund this magnificent project. The fountain cost 800000 Marks a lot of money back then. The Manzù Fountain was unveiled on June 21 1985.
The sculptor was Giacomo Manzù an Italian artist. His 2.2-meter-tall bronze sculpture depicts a young woman. She emerges from a bath. She’s only loosely draped in a cloth. Locals call her the “Chamber Maid”. Manzù insisted the figure be placed in a basin with flowing water.
The fountain wasn’t always here. During the Königsplatz renovations in 2011 they removed it. They built a temporary rail connection. It was called the “Manzù Bogen”. The rail connection was removed in 2013. The pavement was restored in 2014. Finally the fountain returned in August 2015. It sits atop flowing water. It’s illuminated at night by lights behind a nearby bench.
The Manzù Fountain is more than just a work of art. It shows Augsburg’s spirit. It represents rebirth and the city’s continuing evolution. It’s a symbol of Augsburg’s past present and future. It’s a reminder of the city’s rich history and its vibrant present. So take a moment. Appreciate this beautiful fountain. Let the water’s gentle flow wash over you. Let the bronze maiden’s grace inspire you. Remember the story of the Manzù Fountain. Remember Augsburg.