Background

Bell Fountain: A Symphony of Water in Herrenhausen Gardens

Discover the enchanting Bell Fountain in Hanover's Herrenhausen Gardens, a baroque masterpiece where artistry and history converge in a symphony of water and sculpted landscapes.

4.7

The Bell Fountain (Glockenfontäne) is a captivating water feature nestled within the Great Garden (Grosser Garten) of Hanover's Herrenhausen Gardens. This baroque masterpiece, dating back to the late 17th century, showcases a harmonious blend of artistry and engineering. Surrounded by meticulously sculpted hedges, vibrant flowerbeds, and classical statues, the fountain features 164 individual spouts that create a bell-like shape as water cascades down. The Bell Fountain is a focal point within the Great Parterre, offering visitors a serene and picturesque scene. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a must-see attraction, embodying the elegance and grandeur of the Herrenhausen Gardens. Whether you're seeking a tranquil moment or a glimpse into the past, the Bell Fountain promises a memorable experience.

A brief summary to Bell Fountain

Local tips

  • Check the fountain operating schedule in advance, especially during the summer months, to witness the Bell Fountain and other water features in full display.
  • Explore the surrounding Great Garden to fully appreciate the baroque design, sculptures, and meticulously manicured hedges that complement the Bell Fountain.
  • Visit the Niki de Saint Phalle Grotto for a contrasting modern art experience within the historical Herrenhausen Gardens.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hannover Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take tram line 4 or 5 towards Garbsen or Stöcken. Get off at the 'Herrenhäuser Gärten' stop, which is directly in front of the gardens. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes. A single ride ticket costs around €3.60.

  • Driving

    If driving, enter 'Herrenhäuser Straße 4, 30419 Hannover' into your GPS. Parking is available at Parkplatz Ost or Parkplatz West near the gardens. Parking fees are €3 for up to four hours, with a maximum of €12 per day. During special events, parking costs may increase.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Hannover Hauptbahnhof to Herrenhausen Gardens will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Bell Fountain

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bell Fountain

The Bell Fountain, or Glockenfontäne in German, is a celebrated feature of the Great Garden (Grosser Garten) within Hanover's renowned Herrenhausen Gardens. This enchanting water display is more than just a fountain; it's a testament to the artistry, engineering, and historical significance that define these gardens. Located in the heart of the Great Parterre, the Bell Fountain serves as a central focal point, drawing visitors into its mesmerizing embrace. The Great Parterre itself is a meticulously designed area, reflecting the grandeur of baroque garden design. Symmetrical patterns, vibrant flowerbeds, and precisely sculpted hedges create a visually stunning landscape that complements the fountain's elegance. The fountain's design is both intricate and harmonious. It comprises 164 individual spouts, each carefully positioned to create a bell-like shape as water gracefully cascades down. This unique configuration gives the fountain its name and adds a touch of whimsy to the otherwise formal garden setting. The gentle sound of the water, combined with the visual spectacle, creates a serene and captivating atmosphere. Surrounding the Bell Fountain, visitors will find a wealth of classical sculptures and ornamental vases. These sandstone figures, often painted white to resemble marble, add to the garden's aesthetic appeal. They represent allegories of the continents, seasons, elements, and ancient gods, enriching the cultural and historical context of the site. The Herrenhausen Gardens, including the Great Garden and its Bell Fountain, have a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The gardens were initially commissioned by Duke Johann Friedrich in 1666 as a pleasure garden. However, it was Electress Sophie of Hanover who truly transformed Herrenhausen into a baroque masterpiece. Inspired by Dutch and Italian garden designs, she oversaw the creation of the Great Garden between 1680 and 1714. Electress Sophie's vision was to create a garden that reflected the power, elegance, and cultural sophistication of the Hanoverian court. She enlisted the expertise of master gardener Martin Charbonnier, who meticulously laid out the gardens according to her wishes. Rare plants were imported, sculptures were commissioned, and water features were designed to create a harmonious and visually stunning landscape. The Great Garden became a stage for extravagant festivities, gondola rides, and masked balls. It also served as a meeting place for prominent figures in European politics, arts, and sciences. Tsar Peter the Great, George Frideric Handel, and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz were among the notable individuals who graced the gardens with their presence. Over the centuries, the Herrenhausen Gardens have undergone periods of restoration and renovation. The gardens were opened to the public in the mid-18th century, allowing visitors of all social classes to experience their beauty and grandeur. Today, the Herrenhausen Gardens are recognized as one of the most important baroque gardens in Europe, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. In addition to the Bell Fountain and the Great Parterre, the Herrenhausen Gardens encompass several other notable features. The Great Fountain, with its towering jet of water, is a marvel of engineering. The Garden Theatre, Germany's first hedge theatre, offers a unique performance space framed by greenery and gilded statues. The Niki de Saint Phalle Grotto, a colorful and whimsical art installation, provides a modern contrast to the classical garden design. The Berggarten, a botanical garden located across from the Great Garden, showcases a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The Georgengarten, an English-style landscape garden, offers a more natural and relaxed setting for leisurely strolls. Visiting the Bell Fountain and the Herrenhausen Gardens is an immersive experience that engages the senses and stimulates the mind. The beauty of the landscape, the sound of the water, and the historical significance of the site combine to create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you are a garden enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Bell Fountain and the Herrenhausen Gardens are sure to captivate and inspire. The Herrenhausen Gardens are open daily from 9 am, offering ample opportunity to explore their many wonders. The best time to see the fountains, including the Bell Fountain, in operation is during the summer months when they are typically active between 10 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm on weekdays, and 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm on weekends and holidays. A visit to the Bell Fountain is a journey through time, art, and nature, a celebration of human creativity and the beauty of the natural world. It is an experience that will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the Herrenhausen Gardens and their enduring legacy.

Popular Experiences near Bell Fountain

Popular Hotels near Bell Fountain

Select Currency