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Wachsamkeitsbrunnen: A Symbol of Vigilance in Vienna's Josefstadt

A historic Viennese fountain featuring a statue symbolizing vigilance, located in the heart of Josefstadt on Schlesingerplatz.

The Wachsamkeitsbrunnen, or Fountain of Vigilance, is a historic fountain located on Schlesingerplatz in Vienna's Josefstadt district. Featuring a metal statue of a woman representing vigilance, complete with an oil lamp and a crane, it's a charming landmark reflecting the city's rich artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Wachsamkeitsbrunnen

  • Schlesingerpl., Vienna, Josefstadt, 1080, AT
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Take a stroll around Schlesingerplatz to appreciate the architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the former district office.
  • Visit the fountain at night to see it illuminated, creating a particularly attractive display.
  • Explore the nearby Piarist Church, a beautiful Baroque church located a short walk southeast of the fountain.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Theater in der Josefstadt, walk northwest along Josefstädter Straße, then turn left onto Piaristengasse. Continue onto Schlesingerplatz; the Wachsamkeitsbrunnen will be in the center of the square. The walk is approximately 430 meters.

  • Public Transport

    From the Rathaus U-Bahn station (U2 line), take the 13A bus towards Alser Straße/Skodagasse. Get off at the Schlesingerplatz stop. The Wachsamkeitsbrunnen is located in the center of the square. A single ride on Vienna's public transport costs around €2.40.

Discover more about Wachsamkeitsbrunnen

The Wachsamkeitsbrunnen, a protected monument, graces Schlesingerplatz in Vienna's Josefstadt. Created in 1779 by Johann Martin Fischer, it originally stood at the intersection of Alser Straße and Skodagasse, commissioned by the Lower Austrian government. The fountain marked the end of the Woebersche Wasserleitung, providing water to Alservorstadt.In 1937, it was moved to its current location in front of the Josefstadt district office due to traffic concerns. During World War II, the fountain was temporarily moved to Klosterneuburg before returning to Schlesingerplatz in 1946. The statue on top is a metal figure of a woman, cast in lead, who is the goddess of vigilance. She holds an oil lamp in her right hand, symbolizing watchfulness, and a scroll in her left. A crane at her feet represents care. The fountain also features lion heads on its pillar that act as waterspouts.

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