Kapitelschwemme: A Baroque Fountain in Salzburg

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Discover the Baroque beauty of Kapitelschwemme on Kapitelplatz, a historic fountain in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town.

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Kapitelschwemme

The Kapitelschwemme is a Baroque horse well located on Kapitelplatz in Salzburg's Old Town, next to the Salzburg Cathedral. Built in 1732, it features a statue of Neptune and is a popular spot for tourists.

A brief summary to Kapitelschwemme

Kapitelpl., Salzburg, 5020, AT
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kapitelschwemme.

Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Take time to appreciate the intricate details of the fountain's sculptures.
Check local event calendars for cultural performances or markets happening in Kapitelplatz.
Bring a camera to capture the picturesque surroundings, especially the fountain with Hohensalzburg Fortress in the background.

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Getting There

Walking

Kapitelplatz is easily accessible on foot from many points in Salzburg's Old Town. From the Salzburg Cathedral (Dom zu Salzburg), exit and walk towards Kapitelplatz. If coming from Getreidegasse, turn left onto Alter Markt square and head towards Kapitelplatz. The Kapitelschwemme is located in the center of Kapitelplatz.
Public Transport

From Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus number 3 or 5 towards 'Kleinmünchen' or 'Aigen' and get off at the 'Kapitelplatz' stop. Alternatively, from Mirabellplatz, it's a 10-minute walk to Kapitelschwemme. Head east towards the Old Town, passing by the Mirabell Gardens, and continue straight to reach Kapitelplatz. A single bus fare costs approximately €2.50.
Taxi/Ride-share

A taxi or ride-share from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to Kapitelplatz typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic and demand. The journey usually takes around 10-15 minutes.

Discover more about Kapitelschwemme

The Kapitelschwemme, a Baroque fountain, graces Kapitelplatz in Salzburg's Altstadt (Old Town), adjacent to the Salzburger Dom cathedral. Constructed in 1732 under Prince-Archbishop Leopold Anton von Firmian, it exemplifies the grandeur of 18th-century Baroque architecture. Originally, it served as a watering place for horses.The fountain boasts intricate sculptures and decorative elements. The centerpiece is a commanding statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, riding a seahorse. Neptune holds a trident and wears a crown, symbolizing his dominion over water. Flanking Neptune are two Triton figures blowing into conch shells, which predate the rest of the artwork, having been created in 1690. The other sculptures were created by Josef Anton Pfaffinger, based on designs by Franz Anton Danreiter.Above Neptune, a plate displays a vase carried by angels, along with the coat of arms of Archbishop Leopold von Firmian and a Latin inscription: "LeopoLDVs prInCeps Me eXtrVXIt" (“I was built by Prince Leopold”). The capitalized letters and Roman numerals in the inscription add up to 1732, the year the Kapitelschwemme was built. Today, the Kapitelschwemme is a historical landmark, drawing visitors with its design.