Hannakenbrunnen, Vienna Travel Guide

Nestled in Vienna's Innere Stadt (Inner City), the Hannakenbrunnen stands as a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage. Located near the iconic Maria am Gestade church, this often-overlooked gem offers a tranquil escape from the vibrant energy of Vienna's city center.The fountain's creation dates back to 1937 when architect Hubert Matuschek renovated the staircase leading from Tiefen Graben to the Maria am Gestade church. As part of this project, sculptor Rudolf Schmidt was commissioned to create a fountain that would complement the newly designed space. The Hannakenbrunnen was unveiled on December 10, 1937, quickly becoming a notable landmark in the area.The fountain features an elongated octagonal basin, holding approximately 4 cubic meters of water, set upon a flat pedestal. Within this basin rises a stone base, crafted from Lindabrunner conglomerate, which supports a block-like group of figures. This sculptural ensemble depicts three individuals, a dog, a water jug, and intertwining foliage. Two of the figures are shown assisting a third, injured person, adding a narrative element to the artwork. Each side of the base is adorned with a fish head, serving as a waterspout, further enhancing the fountain's visual appeal.The Hannakenbrunnen's artistic significance lies in its connection to local folklore. Rudolf Schmidt drew inspiration from the legend of the 'Hannaken King,' a bathhouse owner from the Hanna region of Moravia. According to the tale, this cunning individual would deliberately trip passersby in the dark, profiting from treating their subsequent injuries. The fountain serves as a reminder that even seemingly small landmarks can hold significant stories and artistic value.