Wappenbrunnen: A Symbol of Berlin's Founding

Discover the Wappenbrunnen in Berlin's Nikolaiviertel: a historical fountain commemorating the city's founding with symbolic coats of arms and the iconic Berlin bear.

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Wappenbrunnen

The Wappenbrunnen, or Coat of Arms Fountain, is a charming historical landmark located in the heart of Berlin's Nikolaiviertel (St. Nicholas Quarter), near the Nikolaikirche. Created in 1987, based on a 1928 design, it commemorates the founding of Berlin. The fountain features a central column topped with a bear, the symbol of Berlin, holding a coat of arms with an eagle. The octagonal fountain basin displays reliefs of eight coats of arms representing the guilds of Berlin and Cölln, such as butchers, bakers, shoemakers, and cloth makers, documented in the original Berlin charters from the 15th century. It's a picturesque spot offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike within the reconstructed historic quarter.

A brief summary to Wappenbrunnen

Berlin, Mitte, 10178, DE

Local tips

Visit during the Festival of Lights in October for a spectacular illumination of the fountain and surrounding Nikolaiviertel.
Explore the Nikolaikirche museum to delve deeper into the history of Berlin and the Nikolaiviertel.
Enjoy a traditional German meal at one of the restaurants in Nikolaiviertel for an immersive cultural experience.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Nikolaiviertel, where the Wappenbrunnen is located, is easily accessible by public transport. Take the U2 or U5 subway line to the 'U Museumsinsel' station, which is a short walk away (approximately 5-10 minutes). Alternatively, you can take the U8 subway line to 'U Alexanderplatz' or 'U Klosterstraße' and walk for about 10-15 minutes. Several bus lines also stop near Nikolaiviertel, including lines 100, 147, 200, and 248. A single ride ticket (Einzelfahrschein) for the AB zone costs around €3.20.
Walking

If you are already in the Mitte district, walking to the Wappenbrunnen is a pleasant option. From Alexanderplatz, head southwest towards the Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall) and continue towards the Spree River. Cross the Mühlendamm bridge and you'll find yourself in the Nikolaiviertel. The Wappenbrunnen is located in front of the Nikolaikirche on Nikolaikirchplatz. The walk from Alexanderplatz takes approximately 15-20 minutes. From Museum Island, cross the Schlossbrücke (Palace Bridge) and walk along the Spree River to reach the Nikolaiviertel in about 10 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Berlin. A short taxi ride from Alexanderplatz to the Nikolaiviertel will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt are also available and may offer slightly lower fares. Be sure to specify 'Nikolaikirchplatz' as your destination for the closest drop-off point.
Driving

While driving to the Nikolaiviertel is possible, parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging and expensive. Limited street parking is available, and fees typically range from €3-€4 per hour. Consider parking in a nearby parking garage, such as the Contipark Tiefgarage RathausPassagen (Spandauer Straße 9, 10178 Berlin), which is a 5-minute walk from the Wappenbrunnen. Hourly rates at this garage are approximately €3, and daily rates can range from €20-€30. Alternatively, utilize a park-and-ride option outside the city center and take public transportation to avoid parking hassles.

Discover more about Wappenbrunnen

Nestled in the heart of Berlin's oldest settlement area, the Nikolaiviertel, the Wappenbrunnen stands as a charming reminder of the city's origins. This historical fountain, also known as the Gründungsbrunnen (Foundation Fountain), isn't just a decorative piece; it's a symbol of Berlin's identity and a testament to its enduring spirit. The Wappenbrunnen is located on Nikolaikirchplatz, a small square in front of the Nikolaikirche (St. Nicholas Church), the oldest church in Berlin. The Nikolaiviertel itself is a reconstruction of the area where Berlin was first founded in the early 13th century. Though much of the original district was destroyed during World War II, the area was rebuilt in the 1980s to commemorate Berlin's 750th anniversary. The result is a delightful pedestrian zone filled with cafes, restaurants, and replicas of historic buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's past. The fountain was created in 1987, based on a design from 1928 by Gerhard Thieme, as a tribute to the city's founding. Its octagonal basin features reliefs of eight coats of arms, each representing a different guild from the historical towns of Berlin and Cölln. These guilds, including butchers, bakers, shoemakers, and cloth makers, played a vital role in the development of the city. The coats of arms are documented in the original Berlin charters from 1442 and 1448, connecting the fountain to the city's medieval roots. At the center of the fountain stands a column topped with a statue of a bear, the heraldic animal of Berlin. The bear holds a coat of arms with an eagle, further emphasizing the city's strength and resilience. The bear has been associated with Berlin since the 13th century, appearing on the city's seal and coat of arms. It symbolizes the city's power, determination, and ability to overcome challenges. The Wappenbrunnen is more than just a historical marker; it's a vibrant part of the Nikolaiviertel. The fountain's picturesque setting makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can relax on the benches surrounding the fountain, admire the intricate details of the coats of arms, and soak in the atmosphere of this charming quarter. The sound of the water adds a soothing element to the bustling city, creating a peaceful oasis in the heart of Berlin. Visiting the Wappenbrunnen offers a chance to reflect on Berlin's long and complex history. From its humble beginnings as two small settlements to its rise as a major European capital, Berlin has faced numerous challenges and transformations. The Wappenbrunnen serves as a reminder of the city's enduring spirit and its ability to rebuild and reinvent itself. While in the Nikolaiviertel, be sure to explore the other attractions in the area. The Nikolaikirche, with its twin towers, houses a museum that recounts the history of the city. The Knoblauchhaus, a Rococo-style house that survived the war almost unscathed, offers a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Berlin family in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Gerichtslaube, a reconstruction of Berlin's medieval courthouse, now houses a restaurant serving traditional Brandenburg fare. The Nikolaiviertel is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient destination for visitors. The area is a pedestrian zone, allowing visitors to stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the atmosphere without the noise and congestion of traffic. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a charming neighborhood, the Nikolaiviertel and the Wappenbrunnen are well worth a visit. The Wappenbrunnen is particularly enchanting during the Festival of Lights, when the fountain and surrounding trees are illuminated with colorful lights. The lively lighting highlights the historical significance of the fountain and creates a magical atmosphere in the Nikolaiviertel. In conclusion, the Wappenbrunnen is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Berlin. It's a symbol of the city's founding, a reminder of its rich history, and a charming oasis in the heart of the bustling capital. Take a moment to admire the intricate details of the fountain, reflect on Berlin's enduring spirit, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic quarter. The Wappenbrunnen is a testament to Berlin's past and a reminder of its vibrant present.

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Wappenbrunnen: A Symbol of Berlin's Founding

A brief summary to Wappenbrunnen

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Wappenbrunnen

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Discover more about Wappenbrunnen

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Wappenbrunnen

Figur Allegorie der Wissenschaft

KURFÜRSTENHAUS

Schlüterhof

Berlin

Fischerinsel 3

Schlossviertel

Friedrichsgracht am Kupfergraben

Herbert-Baum-Denkmal

Berlin Cathedral

Freedom and Unity Memorial

Alte Berliner Stadtmauer

Berliner Fernsehturm

Berlin TV Tower

Jungfernbrücke

Unmissable attractions to see

Free Berlin Bike Tours & Rental

St. Nicholas' Church Museum

Zur Gerichtslaube

Nikolaiviertel

Ephraim Palace

St. George – The Dragonslayer

Molkenmarkt

Rathausbrücke

Rotes Rathaus

Ribbeck House

Marx-Engels-Forum

Mühlendammschleuse

Stern und Kreisschiffahrt GmbH, Nikolaiviertel

Humboldt Promenade am Berliner Schloss

I Love Berlin Bike Tours

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Balthazar 2

Mutter Hoppe

Alt-Berliner Gasthaus Julchen Hoppe

Zur letzten Instanz

Dreh-Restaurant Sphere im Berliner Fernsehturm

Restaurant FOREIGN AFFAIRS

BLESS Restaurant

Restaurant Dae Mon

Charlotte & Fritz

Bocca di Bacco

Nante-Eck

Restaurant Maximilians Berlin

Grill Royal

A Mano

Boulevard Friedrichstrasse

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Shop Passage im Humboldt Forum

Redbear Berlin

ausberlin

BERLIN Store - MUDDASTADT GmbH

I LOVE BERLIN - MUDDASTADT GmbH

ALEXA Berlin

Elbenwald

Hackesche Höfe

THE CODE

Pick'nWeight - Vintage Kilo Store

The Square Berlin East

AMPELMANN shop in the Hackescher Markt

REBECCA Concept Store

The New Black

Kauf Dich Glücklich Mode

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Knutschfleck Berlin

Berlin Icebar