Donauweibchen-Brunnen, Vienna Travel Guide

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Discover the enchanting Donauweibchen-Brunnen in Vienna's Stadtpark, a historical fountain steeped in Viennese folklore and artistic beauty.

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Donauweibchen-Brunnen

The Donauweibchen-Brunnen, nestled in Vienna's Stadtpark, is a charming fountain depicting a benevolent mermaid-like figure from local folklore. It represents the Donauweibchen, a water spirit who aided fishermen and warned of floods. The fountain, adorned with intricate details, offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Vienna's rich cultural tapestry.

A brief summary to Donauweibchen-Brunnen

Rampenbrücke A23 Erdberg 313, Vienna, Innere Stadt, 1010, AT

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Take a leisurely stroll through the Stadtpark to fully appreciate the fountain's serene setting and the surrounding greenery.
Learn about the legend of the Donauweibchen before your visit to enhance your appreciation of the fountain's symbolism.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Stephansplatz, take the U3 (Simmering bound) to Stubentor station (€2.40 single ticket). From there, walk southeast along the Ringstraße for about 5 minutes, passing the MAK (Museum of Applied Arts) on your right. The entrance to Stadtpark and the Donauweibchen-Brunnen will be on your right. Alternatively, from Karlsplatz, take the U4 (Heiligenstadt bound) to Stadtpark station (€2.40 single ticket). Exit the station and the Donauweibchen-Brunnen is a short walk into the park. Tram line 2 also stops nearby at the Weihburggasse stop (€2.40 single ticket).
Walking

From St. Stephen's Cathedral, walk southeast along Kärntner Straße, then turn left onto the Ringstraße. Continue along the Ringstraße for approximately 15 minutes, passing the Vienna State Opera and the Albertina museum on your left. The entrance to Stadtpark and the Donauweibchen-Brunnen will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1.5 km and offers views of Vienna's iconic landmarks.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from the city center (e.g., Stephansplatz) to the Stadtpark entrance near the Donauweibchen-Brunnen will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Kursalon entrance for the shortest walk to the fountain.

Discover more about Donauweibchen-Brunnen

The Donauweibchen-Brunnen, gracefully situated within Vienna's Stadtpark, is more than just a fountain; it's a tangible link to the city's captivating folklore and artistic heritage. This enchanting landmark depicts the Donauweibchen, a benevolent mermaid-like figure deeply embedded in Viennese legends. According to local tales, the Donauweibchen was a kind-hearted water spirit who brought treasures to fortunate fishermen and, more importantly, warned them of impending floods and storms, ensuring their safety.The fountain's creation dates back to 1858 when it was commissioned by the municipality of Vienna. The renowned sculptor Hanns Gasser was entrusted with the task of bringing the legendary figure to life. Gasser's creation features a karst limestone column, a robust and textured foundation that supports the artistic elements above. Four round basins are integrated into the column's design, each adorned with gargoyle-like masks that serve as waterspouts, adding a touch of whimsy and classical artistry to the structure. Crowning the column is the statue of the Donauweibchen herself, a finely sculpted figure reminiscent of ancient Greek Venus statues, reflecting the artistic influences of the time.The fountain was originally intended for the Fischhof (Fishermen's Shore), a location that held significance for the city's fishing community. However, it was not immediately installed there. Instead, it spent two years in a city warehouse before finally being unveiled to the public on September 30, 1865, as the first figurative decoration of the Stadtpark. This marked a significant moment in the park's history, adding a touch of artistic elegance to the green space. Tragically, the original Donauweibchen statue, crafted from delicate Carrara marble, suffered severe damage during World War II. In 1948, sculptor Fellinger meticulously created a stone copy to replace the original, ensuring that the fountain's legacy would endure.Beyond its historical and artistic significance, the Donauweibchen-Brunnen also provides a refreshing respite for visitors to the Stadtpark. The gentle sound of the water flowing from the fountain's spouts creates a soothing ambiance, enhancing the park's tranquil atmosphere.