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Schicksalsbrunnen: A Fountain of Fate

Discover the poignant beauty of Stuttgart's Schicksalsbrunnen, a memorial fountain rich in art nouveau symbolism, reflecting on love, loss, and the complexities of fate in a serene park setting.

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The Schicksalsbrunnen (Fountain of Fate) is a poignant art nouveau fountain located in Stuttgart's Oberer Schlossgarten. Created in 1914 by Karl Donndorf, it serves as a memorial to the opera singer Anna Sutter, who was tragically murdered in 1910. The fountain depicts allegories of love, life, and sorrow, inviting contemplation amidst the bustling city. Its intricate sculptures and serene setting offer a moment of reflection on the complexities of human existence. Situated near the Stuttgart Opera House, the Schicksalsbrunnen is easily accessible and provides a captivating glimpse into Stuttgart's artistic and cultural heritage. The fountain's design and symbolism make it a compelling destination for those seeking beauty and historical significance in Stuttgart.

A brief summary to Schicksalsbrunnen

  • Oberer Schloßgarten 6, Stuttgart, Stuttgart-Mitte, 70173, DE
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the fountain's operational months (mid-May to mid-September) to see it with flowing water, enhancing its beauty and symbolism.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Oberer Schlossgarten for a relaxing experience amidst nature.
  • Take a moment to reflect on the fountain's history and its connection to the life and tragic death of opera singer Anna Sutter.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Schicksalsbrunnen is located in the Oberer Schlossgarten, near the Stuttgart Opera House. From Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (main train station), walk approximately 10 minutes through the park towards the Opera House. The fountain is situated to the left of the Opera House entrance. Alternatively, from the Staatsgalerie U-Bahn stop (U1, U2, U4, U9, U14), walk 5-7 minutes through the park towards the Opera House.

  • Public Transport

    Take the U1, U2, U4, U9 or U14 to the Staatsgalerie U-Bahn station. From there, it's a 5-7 minute walk through the Oberer Schlossgarten to the Schicksalsbrunnen, located near the Opera House. A single ticket for a short trip (up to 3 stops) costs approximately €2.00. A single ticket for Zone 1, covering most of the city center, costs around €3.30.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof to the Oberer Schlossgarten (near the Opera House) will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €8-€15.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the Staatsgalerie, Schlossplatz, Schlossgarten, and Landtag parking garages. However, parking spaces are limited, especially during peak hours. Parking fees typically range from €2.90 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of €20. Consider using public transport due to limited parking.

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Discover more about Schicksalsbrunnen

Nestled within the verdant expanse of Stuttgart's Oberer Schlossgarten, the Schicksalsbrunnen, or Fountain of Fate, stands as a testament to both artistic brilliance and tragic remembrance. This art nouveau masterpiece, created by sculptor Karl Donndorf, serves as a memorial to Anna Sutter, a celebrated opera singer whose life was cut short by a violent act of passion in 1910. Inaugurated in 1914, the fountain has since become a cherished landmark, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the intricate tapestry of human existence. The fountain's design is rich in symbolism, reflecting the themes of love, life, and sorrow. Two primary allegorical groups flank the central basin. On one side, a triumphant male figure, adorned with a victor's wreath, holds aloft a brimming bowl, representing the fullness and abundance of life. A woman gazes adoringly at him, embodying the joy and optimism of love. This scene captures the blissful moments of human connection and the promise of a bright future. In stark contrast, the opposite side of the fountain portrays the darker aspects of fate. A despondent man, his head buried in his hands, finds solace in the lap of a seated woman. This poignant tableau embodies the pain of loss, the weight of despair, and the comfort found in empathy. The juxtaposition of these two scenes encapsulates the duality of life, where joy and sorrow are inextricably intertwined. The Schicksalsbrunnen's creation was deeply rooted in the tragedy surrounding Anna Sutter's death. Sutter, a renowned soprano, was murdered by a former lover, an event that shocked Stuttgart's artistic community. Donndorf's fountain serves not only as a memorial to Sutter but also as a meditation on the unpredictable nature of fate and the fragility of life. Originally located near the artist's entrance of the Stuttgart State Theater, the fountain was moved to its current location in the Oberer Schlossgarten in 1963. This relocation placed the Schicksalsbrunnen in a more public and accessible setting, allowing it to be appreciated by a wider audience. The Oberer Schlossgarten itself provides a fitting backdrop for the Schicksalsbrunnen. This expansive park, with its manicured lawns, winding pathways, and tranquil ponds, offers a respite from the urban bustle. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admiring the diverse flora and fauna, before arriving at the fountain's serene setting. The Schicksalsbrunnen is more than just a beautiful work of art; it is a historical artifact that reflects Stuttgart's cultural heritage. Its presence in the Oberer Schlossgarten enriches the park's atmosphere, providing a space for contemplation and remembrance. The fountain's intricate sculptures and symbolic imagery invite visitors to engage with the themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Visiting the Schicksalsbrunnen offers a unique opportunity to connect with Stuttgart's past and appreciate the city's artistic legacy. The fountain's location in the heart of Stuttgart makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the Schicksalsbrunnen is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. The fountain is typically operational from mid-May to mid-September, maintained through the collaborative efforts of the city of Stuttgart, the Stiftung Stuttgarter Brünnele foundation, and dedicated fountain patrons. During these months, the flowing water enhances the fountain's beauty and symbolism, creating a more immersive and evocative experience. The Schicksalsbrunnen stands as a reminder of the power of art to commemorate, to console, and to inspire. Its enduring presence in Stuttgart's Oberer Schlossgarten ensures that Anna Sutter's memory lives on, and that visitors continue to contemplate the profound mysteries of fate.

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