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Marcus Fountain: A Bremen Landmark

Discover Bremen's artistic heart at the Marcus Fountain, a historic landmark offering a tranquil oasis amidst the city's vibrant Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof.

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The Marcus Fountain, gracing the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof in Bremen's heart, is more than just a water feature; it's a symbol of the city's history and artistic spirit. Inaugurated in 1909 and named after Mayor Marcus, this decagonal fountain, designed by Heinrich Jennen and adorned with sculptures by Hermann Hahn, provides a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city center. Its location near the Liebfrauenkirche, Bremen's oldest parish church, adds to its historical significance. The fountain's intricate sculptures and soothing water sounds create a captivating atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to pause and appreciate Bremen's rich cultural heritage. The square itself has witnessed centuries of Bremen's history, from its days as a burial ground to its transformation into a vibrant marketplace.

A brief summary to Marcus Fountain

  • Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof 19, Bremen, Mitte, 28195, DE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during the weekly market for a vibrant atmosphere and local produce.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Liebfrauenkirche to admire its stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the intricate sculptures on the fountain, each telling a story of Bremen's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Marcus Fountain is located in the heart of Bremen's city center, within easy walking distance of most major attractions. From the Bremen Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), walk north along Bahnhofstraße, then turn right onto Sögestraße. Continue onto Obernstraße, and the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof with the Marcus Fountain will be on your left, next to the Liebfrauenkirche. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, from the Marktplatz with the Bremen Town Hall and Roland statue, walk east past the Liebfrauenkirche, and you'll find the Marcus Fountain on the other side.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by tram, the closest stops are 'Domsheide' or 'Schüsselkorb'. Tram lines 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 serve Domsheide, while tram lines 4, 6, and 8 serve Schüsselkorb. From either stop, it's a short walk to the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof and the Marcus Fountain. A single adult ticket for a short trip within Bremen costs approximately €2.85. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines at the tram stops or directly on the tram.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Bremen Hauptbahnhof to the Marcus Fountain will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost around €10-€15. Simply provide the driver with the address 'Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof 19, 28195 Bremen' or mention the Liebfrauenkirche as your destination.

  • Parking

    Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Marcus Fountain is limited due to its location in a pedestrian zone. However, several parking garages are located within a short walking distance, including BREPARKhaus Mitte (Pelzerstraße 40), BREPARKhaus Katharinenklosterhof (Katharinenstraße 16), and Parkhaus Am Dom (Wilhaldistraße 1). Hourly parking rates typically range from €2.50 to €4.00, with daily maximums around €19-€25. Be aware that parking availability can be limited during peak tourist season and on weekends.

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Discover more about Marcus Fountain

The Marcus Fountain, located on the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof (Church of Our Lady Churchyard) in Bremen, Germany, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage. This ornate fountain, inaugurated in 1909, is not merely a decorative element but a significant landmark that reflects Bremen's civic pride and cultural identity. The fountain owes its existence to the generosity of Mayor Marcus, after whom it is named. The design was entrusted to Berlin architect Heinrich Jennen, while the sculptural work was executed by Munich sculptor Hermann Hahn. The result is a harmonious blend of architectural and sculptural elements, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant work of art. The fountain's decagonal (ten-sided) basin is crafted from granite and adorned with bronze figures that represent various aspects of Bremen's history and culture. These sculptures, meticulously crafted by Hermann Hahn, depict historical figures, allegorical representations, and scenes from Bremen's maritime past. The cascading water, flowing from the fountain's upper tiers into the basin below, creates a soothing soundscape that contrasts with the lively atmosphere of the surrounding square. The location of the Marcus Fountain, on the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof, is historically significant. The Kirchhof, or churchyard, surrounds the Liebfrauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), Bremen's oldest parish church. This area has been a focal point of Bremen's civic and religious life for centuries. Originally a burial ground, the Kirchhof gradually transformed into a marketplace and a gathering place for the city's inhabitants. Over the centuries, the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof has witnessed numerous historical events and transformations. It served as the location for Bremen's first town hall and hosted the annual Freimarkt (Free Market) as it evolved from a trade fair into a popular festival. The square also housed the Kaiser Wilhelm monument for several decades before it was melted down during World War II. Today, the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof is a vibrant public space surrounded by shops, offices, and the historic Liebfrauenkirche. The Marcus Fountain serves as a focal point, drawing visitors and locals alike to admire its beauty and reflect on Bremen's past. The fountain provides a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city center, offering a place to pause and appreciate the city's artistic and cultural heritage. The Liebfrauenkirche, adjacent to the Marcus Fountain, adds to the historical and architectural significance of the site. With origins dating back to the 11th century, the Liebfrauenkirche is Bremen's oldest parish church and a prime example of Gothic architecture. Its stained-glass windows, particularly those created by French artist Alfred Manessier, are renowned for their vibrant colors and spiritual depth. The area surrounding the Marcus Fountain and the Liebfrauenkirche is a designated cultural heritage site, encompassing numerous historic buildings and monuments. These include the Deutsche Nationalbank building, the Herms office building, and various residential and commercial structures that reflect Bremen's architectural evolution over the centuries. The Marcus Fountain stands as a symbol of Bremen's resilience and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Despite the destruction and upheaval of the 20th century, the fountain has remained a beloved landmark, reminding residents and visitors of the city's enduring spirit. Visiting the Marcus Fountain offers a unique opportunity to experience Bremen's history and culture firsthand. The fountain's intricate sculptures, the soothing sound of the water, and the surrounding historic buildings create a captivating atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the Marcus Fountain is a must-see destination in Bremen. The fountain's design, with its ten sides and carefully chosen sculptures, invites contemplation and reflection. Each figure tells a story, representing a facet of Bremen's identity and its connection to the wider world. The fountain's presence on the Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof, a space that has evolved from a burial ground to a marketplace to a public square, underscores the city's ability to adapt and thrive while preserving its historical roots. The Marcus Fountain is more than just a beautiful object; it is a living symbol of Bremen's past, present, and future. It is a place where history, art, and community converge, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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