Have you ever felt the cool touch of history? Right here before you stands the Neuer Brunnen a masterpiece of late Baroque architecture. This isn’t just any fountain. It’s a portal to the past. Imagine Mainz in 1726. The Neubrunnenplatz bustled with activity. Johannes Weydt the court and city master builder under Elector Lothar Franz von Schönborn oversaw its creation. He meticulously crafted this stunning fountain.
The Neuer Brunnen is more than just a pretty face. It’s a symbol of Mainz’s rich history. That imposing obelisk in the center is approximately 12 meters high. It’s covered in bas-reliefs. Each one tells a story.
Look closely at the base. Four sculptures stand guard. They represent two river gods and two lions. Notice the detail. The river gods the Rhine and the Main were originally sculpted by Franz Matthias Hiernle in 1726. But in 1877 they were replaced with copies. You can see the originals in the Landesmuseum Mainz. The sphinx-like lions are by Joseph Scholl. He created them from Savonnières limestone around 1828. They replaced some nymphs that were there before.
The oval basin and the obelisk are made of red sandstone. Feel the weight of history as you gaze upon the smooth worn stone. Can you imagine the countless hands that have touched this fountain over the centuries? It’s a living testament to time.
The last renovation of the Neuer Brunnen was completed in the autumn of 2002. The fountain stands proudly on the Neubrunnenplatz. The square itself was named after this magnificent piece of art. It stands as a silent witness to Mainz’s enduring spirit. It also stands as a reminder of the artistry and craftsmanship of bygone eras.
So next time you find yourself in Mainz take a moment to appreciate the Neuer Brunnen. It’s much more than just a fountain. It’s a story waiting to be discovered. It’s a piece of Mainz’s soul.