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Frankfurter Märchenbrunnen: A Fairytale Oasis

Discover Frankfurt's enchanting Märchenbrunnen, a stunning Art Nouveau fountain near Willy-Brandt-Platz, where fairytale magic meets artistic heritage in a tranquil urban oasis.

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The Frankfurter Märchenbrunnen, or Fairy Tale Fountain, is a captivating Art Nouveau masterpiece nestled in the heart of Frankfurt. Located on Willy-Brandt-Platz, near the Frankfurt Opera, this enchanting fountain offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Designed by Friedrich Christoph Hausmann and completed in 1910, the fountain features a central water nymph, rumored to be modeled after a local laundress, surrounded by mythical creatures and water-spouting figures. The Märchenbrunnen provides a glimpse into Frankfurt's artistic heritage and offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Its intricate details and tranquil setting make it a must-see attraction for those seeking a touch of whimsy and beauty in the city center. The fountain's reconstruction in 2006, after wartime damage, symbolizes Frankfurt's resilience and commitment to preserving its cultural treasures.

A brief summary to Frankfurter Märchenbrunnen

  • Willy-Brandt-Platz, Frankfurt, Innenstadt I, 60311, DE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details of the fountain's sculptures and the surrounding Art Nouveau architecture.
  • Combine your visit with a performance at the nearby Frankfurt Opera or a stroll through the Untermainanlage park for a complete cultural experience.
  • Take advantage of the fountain's proximity to Willy-Brandt-Platz U-Bahn station for easy access to other Frankfurt attractions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Frankfurter Märchenbrunnen is easily accessible via public transport. From Frankfurt Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take the U4 or U5 U-Bahn lines to Willy-Brandt-Platz station. The fountain is a short walk from the station exit, located near the Städtische Bühnen (Municipal Theater). A single ride on the U-Bahn costs approximately €2.60.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the city center, such as near the Römerberg or Zeil shopping street, the Märchenbrunnen is within walking distance. Head west towards Willy-Brandt-Platz, keeping an eye out for the Eurotower skyscraper. The fountain is located in the Untermainanlage park, adjacent to the Frankfurt Opera. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from Römerberg.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Frankfurt Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the Märchenbrunnen will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. The journey typically takes 5-10 minutes. Direct the driver to Willy-Brandt-Platz near the Frankfurt Opera.

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Discover more about Frankfurter Märchenbrunnen

The Frankfurter Märchenbrunnen, also known as the Fairy Tale Fountain, is an exquisite example of Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) artistry, gracing the Untermainanlage near Willy-Brandt-Platz in Frankfurt. Completed in 1910, the fountain stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural history and its dedication to preserving artistic treasures. The fountain's origins trace back to Leo Gans, a prominent figure in Frankfurt's industrial scene, who commissioned the project with a generous donation of 150,000 marks. Gans envisioned a public artwork that would enrich the city's landscape and provide a source of joy for its citizens. The design of the Märchenbrunnen was entrusted to the sculptor Friedrich Christoph Hausmann, who crafted the central figure of a water nymph from white Tyrolean marble. Legend has it that the nymph's likeness was inspired by Margarete Endres, a young laundress from Niederrad, whose beauty captured Hausmann's attention. The nymph, often referred to as "Mainweibchen" by locals, sits gracefully amidst a backdrop of water-spouting mythical creatures, fish, and lizards, all meticulously sculpted in bronze. The fountain's grottolike structure is framed by a semicircular wall of shell limestone, adding to its enchanting atmosphere. The intricate details and whimsical figures evoke a sense of fairytale magic, transporting visitors to a world of imagination and wonder. The Märchenbrunnen quickly became a beloved landmark in Frankfurt, attracting visitors from far and wide who came to admire its beauty and soak in its tranquil ambiance. However, the fountain's history took a somber turn during World War II, when the original bronze figures were melted down for wartime purposes. For many years, the Märchenbrunnen stood incomplete, a poignant reminder of the war's devastating impact on Frankfurt's cultural heritage. In the early 2000s, efforts were undertaken to restore the Märchenbrunnen to its former glory. Through meticulous research and the use of historical photographs from the 1920s, the Mansudae Overseas Projects, a North Korean art studio, was commissioned to recreate the bronze figures. This collaboration, though controversial, resulted in the faithful reproduction of the fountain's original sculptures, ensuring its preservation for future generations. In May 2006, the fully reconstructed Märchenbrunnen was unveiled to the public, marking a momentous occasion in Frankfurt's cultural history. The fountain's restoration not only revived a beloved landmark but also symbolized the city's resilience and its commitment to preserving its artistic heritage. Today, the Märchenbrunnen continues to enchant visitors with its timeless beauty and whimsical charm. Its location near the Frankfurt Opera and other cultural attractions makes it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The Märchenbrunnen offers a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, providing a space for reflection and appreciation of art. Visitors can stroll along the Untermainanlage, admiring the fountain's intricate details and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The fountain's surroundings also offer a variety of attractions, including the Frankfurt Opera, the Main Tower, and numerous dining options and accommodations. The Märchenbrunnen stands as a symbol of Frankfurt's cultural identity, reminding visitors of the city's rich history and its enduring commitment to the arts. Its fairytale charm and artistic significance make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Frankfurt.

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