Ever wondered who these figures surrounding the Maximiliansbrunnen are? The Maximiliansbrunnen stands proudly on Maximiliansplatz in Bamberg. It is named after the Bavarian King Maximilian I Joseph. Ferdinand von Miller created this impressive fountain. The Maximiliansbrunnen was inaugurated in 1880.
Bamberg pledged to erect a monument to Maximilian I Joseph in 1824. This commitment marked his 25th anniversary as king. However, it took fifty years. The city requested financial support from the Bavarian government to build a fountain honoring the deceased king. In 1875, a grant of 23000 Mark was approved. The city had to cover the remaining costs.
A competition was launched in 1878. The fountain’s design had to reflect Bamberg’s history. Figures of local importance were to adorn the fountain. The figures were to be made of Kelheim limestone or bronze. Ferdinand von Miller won the commission. He was to complete the Maximiliansbrunnen by May 1, 1880. Miller had originally designed the fountain for a different location. This explains the proportional imbalance between the fountain and the square. Bronze was chosen for the figures. Miller insisted on a marble basin. The city magistrate had preferred sandstone. This decision increased production costs. Costs rose from 46000 to 55000 Mark. The city also bore the costs for the foundation, water pipes and installation.
The Maximiliansbrunnen was unveiled on August 26, 1880. The unveiling coincided with the House of Wittelsbach’s 700th anniversary. Prince Regent Luitpold attended the ceremony.
King Max I Joseph stands on the main pillar of the Maximiliansbrunnen. He is flanked by Bamberg’s key figures. These include Heinrich II. He lived from 973 to 1024. Heinrich II founded the Bishopric of Bamberg. Kunigunde of Luxembourg is also depicted. She lived from 980 to 1033. Kunigunde was the wife of Heinrich II. Otto I of Bamberg is another figure. He lived from 1060 to 1139. Otto was a canonized bishop of Bamberg. Konrad III completes the ensemble. He lived from 1093 to 1152. Konrad was a German king born and died in Bamberg.
The statue of Heinrich II at the Maximiliansbrunnen may have inspired a commemorative coin. The coin marked the 900th anniversary of Heinrich II’s death in 1924. You can see Miller’s signature on the base of Saint Kunigunde. The base of the Maximiliansbrunnen also features a plaque.
The Maximiliansbrunnen is more than just a fountain. It is a testament to Bamberg’s rich history and its connection to Bavarian royalty. Take a closer look at each figure. Reflect on their contributions to this remarkable city.