Wasserköniginnen

In the heart of Zurich, where the Limmat River flows, stand the Wasserköniginnen. “Queens of Water,” they are called, these three graceful figures sculpted by Elide Purtschert-Beccari and her son, Franz. They reign over a simple drinking fountain, yet their presence speaks of something far grander. The Wasserköniginnen are a relatively recent addition to Zurich’s landscape. Their creation dates back to the 20th century. But their location, nestled between the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, connects them to a history far older. This spot, where the Wasserkirche once stood, was an island in the Limmat. The Wasserköniginnen, with their flowing robes and serene expressions, seem to echo the church’s vanished presence. The Wasserkirche, first mentioned in the 13th century, held a special significance for Zurich. It was here, according to local lore, that the city’s patron saints, Felix and Regula, were martyred. The church, originally built in the 10th century, was rebuilt and renovated many times over. It even served as Zurich’s first public library in 1634, showcasing the city’s dedication to knowledge and learning. The Wasserköniginnen, though not directly related to the church’s functions, carry a symbolic weight. They embody the life-giving force of water, just as the Wasserkirche, or “Water Church,” drew its name from the river beside it. The figures evoke a sense of continuity, a connection to the past. They invite us to reflect on the layers of history embedded in this place. As you quench your thirst at the fountain, remember the stories whispered by the Limmat and carried on the wind. The Wasserköniginnen watch over them still, silent queens of a watery realm.