Donnerbrunnen: A Baroque Fountain in Vienna

The Donnerbrunnen, also known as the Providentiabrunnen, graces the Neuer Markt in Vienna's Innere Stadt. This Baroque masterpiece, created by Georg Raphael Donner between 1737 and 1739, showcases the artistic talent of the era. The fountain's central figure is Providentia, the Roman goddess of foresight, symbolizing planning for the future. Surrounding her are allegorical representations of four of Austria's major rivers: the Traun, Enns, Ybbs, and March. The Traun is depicted as a young boy catching a fish, the March as a woman resting against a battle relief, the Ybbs as a young girl with a jug, and the Enns as an old ferryman. The sculptures were originally made from a lead-tin alloy by Johann Nikolaus Moll, based on Donner's designs, and were unveiled in 1739. However, in 1773, they were removed due to concerns about their nudity. Fortunately, they were preserved and returned in 1801. In 1873, the original lead figures were replaced with bronze copies to protect them from the elements. The originals are now housed in the Wien Museum. The Neuer Markt has been revitalized into a pedestrian space, allowing visitors to appreciate the Donnerbrunnen in a relaxed setting. The fountain is a focal point, attracting tourists and locals alike.