Hønekilden: A Spring of Legends

Hønekilden, nestled in the heart of Sønderborg, is more than just a spring; it's a repository of local legends and a testament to the town's rich history. For centuries, this unassuming water source held a place of prominence in the lives of Sønderborg's residents, its reputation built on the purity and quality of its water. In the 1500s, Queen Dorothea, who resided at Sønderborg Castle during her later years, recognized the spring's exceptional quality. She ordered the water to be channeled through hollowed-out tree trunks to supply the castle's waterworks, a testament to its superior taste and cleanliness. Locals, too, held the spring in high regard, preferring its water for cooking, especially for dishes like kale and pea soup. Beyond its practical uses, Hønekilden was also a source of much folklore and superstition. One of the most enduring legends revolves around the birth of children in the Havbogade neighborhood. Unlike the rest of the world, where storks were believed to deliver babies, the residents of Havbogade claimed that their newborns were 'hauled up' from Hønekilden, 'swimming' in its mystical waters. In 1924, an elderly resident, Widow Larsen, recounted how, as a child in the mid-19th century, she and her friends would hide near the spring, hoping to witness the retrieval of these mythical infants, though their curiosity was never satisfied. However, not all the stories associated with Hønekilden are lighthearted. A darker tale tells of a young girl who, on the eve of Epiphany (Three Kings Day), sought to glimpse her future husband by gazing into the spring's depths. Instead of a vision of marital bliss, she saw her own reflection, shrouded in a burial shroud. Disturbed by this ominous premonition, she confided in a friend, but that very night, fear drove her into the darkness, and her lifeless body was discovered the next morning in the icy harbor waters. While the original spring's outlet, still visible behind a wrought-iron gate, no longer provides potable water, the site continues to draw visitors seeking a connection to Sønderborg's past. In 2016, the area surrounding Hønekilden underwent a revitalization, with the addition of a charming water feature designed by local artist Vibeke Fonnesberg. This modern installation includes trickling water taps and a bronze sculpture of a rooster with three hens, a playful nod to the spring's name ('Høne' translates to 'hen' in Danish). The design also incorporates elements that reference Sønderborg's history, including a curved line in the paving that marks the route of the former railway line that once ran across the square, connecting the town to the mainland. A wooden platform symbolizes a train car, further emphasizing this connection to the past. Visiting Hønekilden today offers a multi-layered experience. It's a chance to reflect on the vital role that natural resources like fresh water played in the lives of past generations. It's an opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of local folklore and legends that have been woven around this unassuming spring. And it's a moment to appreciate the artistic interpretation of history and tradition that Vibeke Fonnesberg has brought to the site. Located on Nørre Havnegade, Hønekilden is easily accessible to visitors exploring Sønderborg's harbor front. While there are no specific opening hours, the site is open to the public year-round. The best time to visit is during daylight hours, when you can fully appreciate the details of the water feature and the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of folklore, or simply seeking a peaceful moment by the harbor, Hønekilden offers a unique and memorable experience. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, where legends come to life, and where the simple act of contemplating a spring can spark a deeper appreciation for the history and culture of Sønderborg. As you stand by the spring, imagine Queen Dorothea's servants drawing water for the castle, picture the young girls hiding among the trees, hoping to catch a glimpse of the mythical water babies, and reflect on the tragic tale of the girl who saw her own death in the spring's depths. Hønekilden is more than just a landmark; it's a living story, waiting to be discovered.