Schwendi Fountain: A Symbol of Colmar

The Schwendi Fountain is one of Colmar's most iconic landmarks, situated on the Place de l'Ancienne Douane, behind the Koïfhus (Old Customs House). The fountain pays tribute to Lazarus von Schwendi (1522-1583), a military leader of the Holy Roman Empire and lord of Hohlandsbourg. The statue, created by Auguste Bartholdi in 1898, depicts Schwendi holding a vine, which, according to legend, represents the Tokay grape (Pinot Gris) that he brought back from Hungary.The original fountain was destroyed during World War II in 1940 but was later rebuilt, with the original statue being reinstated. Initially, the statue faced away from the Koïfhus but was reoriented in 1954 to face the building. The fountain's location in the Old Town makes it a central point for visitors exploring Colmar's historical and architectural beauty. The area around the fountain is filled with cafes and shops, making it a vibrant gathering place for both tourists and locals.Bartholdi, a native of Colmar and the designer of the Statue of Liberty, created several other monuments in the city, including the Fontaine Roesselmann and the Monument au Général Rapp. The Schwendi Fountain not only serves as a historical marker but also as a testament to Colmar's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy.