Puppenbrunnen: Aachen's Playful Doll Fountain
A whimsical fountain in Aachen's heart, featuring interactive bronze figures that bring the city's history and culture to life for all ages.
The Puppenbrunnen (Doll Fountain) is a captivating and interactive sculpture in Aachen's city center, found on Krämerstraße between the Aachen Cathedral and the Rathaus. Created in 1975 by Aachen sculptor Bonifatius Stirnberg, the fountain is a dynamic collection of bronze figures and masks, each reflecting a facet of Aachen's history and culture. What sets the Puppenbrunnen apart is its interactive nature. Many figures have movable parts, inviting passersby to engage with the artwork and create their own arrangements. This transforms the fountain into a constantly evolving reflection of the city and its people. The figures are rich in symbolism, offering a glimpse into Aachen's past and present. A horse and rider pay homage to Aachen's equestrian tradition, while a professor represents the city's academic excellence. A market woman symbolizes Aachen's history as a center of trade, and carnival masks celebrate the city's Carnival celebrations. A prelate represents the church, and a harlequin symbolizes culture and the arts. Crowning the ensemble is a rooster, a symbol of vigilance and a nod to Aachen's history under French occupation. The Puppenbrunnen's interactive nature encourages creativity and playfulness. Children delight in rearranging the figures, creating comical scenarios. Adults are drawn to the fountain's charm, pausing to admire the artistry and engage with Aachen's history. The fountain is a symbol of Aachen's welcoming atmosphere and is often featured on postcards and souvenirs.
Local tips
- Interact with the movable figures to create your own unique display and photo opportunity.
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the details of the bronze figures and the fountain's playful design.
- Take a stroll through the surrounding Altstadt (old town) to explore other historical and cultural attractions.
A brief summary to Puppenbrunnen
- Krämerstraße 27, Aachen, 52062, DE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
The Puppenbrunnen is located in the heart of Aachen's Altstadt (old town) on Krämerstraße, a pedestrian zone. From the Aachen Cathedral, walk south. The fountain is a short walk from the cathedral, easily accessible within a few minutes. From the Rathaus (City Hall), walk north on Krämerstraße. The fountain will be on your left. There are no costs involved in reaching the fountain on foot.
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Public Transport
Aachen's main bus station (Bushof) is a short walk from the Puppenbrunnen. From the Bushof, walk south towards the city center and the Aachen Cathedral. Follow the signs to the Dom (Cathedral). Once you reach the cathedral, continue along Krämerstraße. The Puppenbrunnen will be on your left. A single bus fare within Aachen typically costs around €2.80.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available in several car parks in the city center. Car parks Rathaus and EBV Carré are close to the Puppenbrunnen. From these car parks, walk towards the Aachen Cathedral and then follow Krämerstraße to the fountain. Parking rates typically cost €2.50 per hour, with daily maximums ranging from €6 to €18. Keep in mind the low emission zone; a green sticker is required for most vehicles.
