Have you ever seen a fountain that tells a story? The Schäflerbrunnen in Augsburg does just that. Right here before you stands a testament to craftsmanship a tribute to a bygone era.
This isn’t just any fountain. The Schäflerbrunnen located in the Schäflerhof in Augsburg’s Lechviertel is a symbol of Augsburg’s rich history. More specifically it represents the Schäfler trade. The fountain was created in 1985 for Augsburg’s 2000-year anniversary. It’s tucked away in a quiet courtyard a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. To reach it you pass through a narrow passageway under a Schwibbogen archway inscribed ‘Schäflerhof’.
Imagine this courtyard in the 18th and 19th centuries. Four Schäfler workshops thrived here. The Schäflerhof site itself once housed the Kăbitz Schäfler workshop. This was unfortunately destroyed during the devastating air raids of 1944. Even the last Augsburg Schäfler Stephan Demharter lived on this very street.
The Schäflerbrunnen itself is a work of art by Augsburg artist Christian Angerbauer. It’s based on a small model miraculously found in the rubble of the destroyed building in 1944. The central column depicts the Schäfler dance a guild dance known since the 16th century. Look closely at the fountain’s basin. Four large bronze panels portray the meticulous process of making a barrel. Each detail speaks volumes about the skill and dedication of the Schäfler.
The Schäflerhof also contains display cases. These are full of information about the courtyard and the craft itself. You can almost feel the presence of the Schäfler hard at work. Their dedication is brought to life through these small bronze panels and the graceful dancers frozen in time on the central column.
The Schäflerbrunnen in Augsburg isn’t merely a water feature. It’s a living monument. It’s a vibrant piece of the city’s heritage. It allows us to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of craftsmanship. This fountain serves as a reminder that history isn’t just about dates and names. It’s about the hands that built a city the crafts that shaped its character. So take your time enjoy the beauty of the fountain and let the story it tells sink in.