Background

Muttergottesbrunnen: A Baroque Jewel in Heidelberg's Heart

Discover the baroque beauty of Heidelberg's Muttergottesbrunnen on the Kornmarkt, a historic fountain symbolizing faith, resilience, and the city's rich cultural heritage.

4.7

The Muttergottesbrunnen, or Mother of God Fountain, graces Heidelberg's Kornmarkt with its baroque elegance. Created in 1718 by Peter van den Branden, the fountain features a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ child, symbolizing faith and resilience. The statue stands atop a globe encircled by a serpent, representing the triumph over evil. The Kornmarkt itself has been a central hub for centuries, evolving from a grain market to a vibrant square surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops. The fountain serves as a focal point and a reminder of Heidelberg's complex religious history, making it a must-see landmark for visitors exploring the Altstadt.

A brief summary to Muttergottesbrunnen (Kornmarkt-Madonna), Heidelberg - Peter van den Branden (1718)

  • Heidelberg, Heidelberger Altstadt, DE

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience at the fountain.
  • Take a guided walking tour of Heidelberg's Old Town to learn more about the history and significance of the Muttergottesbrunnen and the Kornmarkt.
  • Enjoy the view of Heidelberg Castle from the Kornmarkt, especially beautiful during sunset.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit) on Marktplatz, walk northwest towards Hauptstrasse. Turn left onto Hauptstrasse and continue for approximately 100 meters. Kornmarkt will be on your right, with the Muttergottesbrunnen prominently displayed in the square. The walk is short and straightforward, taking only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus or tram, the closest stop is 'Rathaus/Bergbahn'. From the stop, walk southwest towards the Rathaus (City Hall). Pass the Rathaus on your left and continue straight onto Kornmarkt. The Muttergottesbrunnen will be directly in front of you. A single ticket for a short trip within Heidelberg costs approximately €2.20 - €3.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Kornmarkt will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €10-€15. Ask the driver to drop you off at Kornmarkt, near the Rathaus.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available at the Kornmarkt/Schloss (P12) multi-storey car park, located directly next to the Kornmarkt. Follow the signs for 'Kornmarkt' or 'Schloss'. Parking fees at P12 are approximately €2.50-€3.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of around €15. Be aware that the car park has a maximum vehicle height of 1.80 meters. From the car park, exit onto Zwingerstrasse and walk a short distance to Kornmarkt.

Unlock the Best of Muttergottesbrunnen (Kornmarkt-Madonna), Heidelberg - Peter van den Branden (1718)

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Muttergottesbrunnen (Kornmarkt-Madonna), Heidelberg - Peter van den Branden (1718)

The Muttergottesbrunnen, also known as the Kornmarkt-Madonna or Mariensäule, is a captivating fountain sculpture located in the heart of Heidelberg's Altstadt (Old Town), specifically on the Kornmarkt (Grain Market). This baroque masterpiece, created by Peter van den Branden in 1718, stands as a testament to the city's rich history, religious complexities, and artistic heritage. The fountain's central figure is a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary, depicted as the Queen of Heaven. She wears a radiant crown adorned with stars and holds a lily scepter, symbols of purity and royalty. In her left arm, she cradles the Christ child, offering a sense of maternal love and protection. The statue's iconography draws from the Counter-Reformation movement, with Mary standing triumphantly on a globe encircled by a monstrous serpent, representing the defeat of heresy and evil. The placement of the Muttergottesbrunnen was not without its historical context. During the early 18th century, Heidelberg was grappling with religious tensions between the predominantly Reformed Church population and the Catholic Prince-Elector Charles III Philip. The installation of the Marian statue was part of a broader effort to promote Catholic imagery and assert Catholic influence in the city, a move that was met with resistance by some of the Reformed citizens. Over the centuries, the fountain has undergone several transformations. Originally, the statue stood on a pedestal in the middle of the Kornmarkt. In 1830, when the Hauptstrasse (main street) was widened, the fountain was moved to the center of the square and integrated into a fountain complex. The pedestal was equipped with water spouts and surrounded by an octagonal basin. Later, between 1870 and 1890, the large basin was replaced by a square pedestal with three smaller shell-shaped basins. After 1900, the small planted area around the fountain was removed, and a stepped podium was added. Today, the Muttergottesbrunnen is more than just a historical artifact; it's a living symbol of Heidelberg. The Kornmarkt, where it stands, has evolved from its origins as a grain market into a bustling square that serves as a social and cultural hub. Framed by charming buildings, cafes, and shops, the square offers stunning views of Heidelberg Castle perched on the hillside above. The fountain provides an elegant and spiritual focal point, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The Kornmarkt itself is steeped in history. For centuries, it served as a vital center of commerce and social interaction, where farmers brought their harvests, merchants displayed their wares, and townspeople gathered to trade goods and share news. The square teemed with life, offering a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells. The rhythmic calls of vendors, the chatter of buyers negotiating prices, and the occasional music of street performers created an atmosphere of lively energy. Visitors to the Muttergottesbrunnen can immerse themselves in the ambiance of 18th-century Germany, with souvenir shops and stalls offering traditional German food adding to the square's charm. The fountain is a popular spot for taking photographs, capturing the essence of Heidelberg's historical narrative and artistic heritage. The intricate details of the statue and the serene atmosphere that surrounds it make it a truly enchanting experience. Exploring the Kornmarkt and the Muttergottesbrunnen offers a glimpse into Heidelberg's past and present. The square's cobblestone streets and flower-lined pathways add to its romantic charm, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a vibrant European city, the Muttergottesbrunnen is a must-see landmark that will leave a lasting impression.

Popular Experiences near Muttergottesbrunnen (Kornmarkt-Madonna), Heidelberg - Peter van den Branden (1718)

Popular Hotels near Muttergottesbrunnen (Kornmarkt-Madonna), Heidelberg - Peter van den Branden (1718)

Select Currency