Manzù Fountain: Augsburg's Bronze Bather

The Manzù Fountain, located on Königsplatz in the heart of Augsburg, is more than just a water feature; it's a symbol of the city's rich history, artistic appreciation, and vibrant urban life. The fountain's centerpiece is a bronze sculpture by renowned Italian artist Giacomo Manzù, depicting a young woman stepping out of her bath. This elegant figure, draped in a simple tunic, has captured the hearts of locals, who affectionately call her the 'Kammer-Fräulein'. The fountain's story began in 1980 when the Augsburg Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) decided to commission a new fountain for Königsplatz to celebrate the city's 2000th anniversary. Several Augsburg businesses contributed to the project, which cost 800,000 Deutschmarks. After much deliberation, the commission chose Giacomo Manzù, an Italian sculptor known for his expressive and sensual figures, to create the statue. The fountain was officially inaugurated on June 21, 1985, after years of planning and coordination. The fountain's location has its own history. Before the fountain, the Göggingen Gate stood there, which was replaced in the 20th century by a round stone structure called the “Pilz” (Mushroom), which served as both a bus stop and a meeting place. The city planned to build a kiosk after its demolition in 1977, but these plans were never carried out. The fountain was dismantled and stored in mid-July 2011 during the Königplatz renovation. The Stadtwerke built the Manzù Arch, a temporary track connection between Fuggerstrasse and Bürgermeister-Fischer-Strasse, in its place. The track arch was finally removed in September 2013. The paved area was restored in September 2014, and the fountain with statue has been reinstalled since August 2015, above a flowing water surface and with lighting from the bank behind it at night. The bronze figure stands in a shallow basin of flowing water, a design element requested by Manzù himself. The statue, standing at approximately 2.2 meters tall, portrays a young woman in a moment of serene vulnerability. The loosely draped tunic adds to the figure's grace, while the flowing water enhances the sense of movement and life. The fountain's design was completed by the former planners of Königplatz, who had originally intended to build a kiosk there. The Manzù Fountain has become a beloved landmark in Augsburg. It is a popular meeting point for locals and a source of delight for tourists. The fountain's location on Königsplatz, a major transportation hub, ensures that it is seen by countless people every day. The gentle sound of the flowing water and the beauty of the sculpture offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. At night, the fountain is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. The subtle lighting highlights the contours of the bronze figure and reflects off the water, making it a captivating sight. The fountain's presence enhances the overall ambiance of Königsplatz, making it a more inviting and enjoyable space for everyone. The Manzù Fountain is not just a beautiful work of art; it is also a symbol of Augsburg's commitment to culture and public spaces. The city takes pride in maintaining the fountain and ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of the urban landscape. The fountain's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with people on an emotional level. The fountain has undergone changes over the years. As part of the “projekt augsburg city” redesign of Königplatz, the statue was moved a few meters north of its original location. It was then placed in a new water basin, level with the ground, and rebuilt with new water technology. A 16.5 m long seating bench made from Fuerstenstein diorite with LED lighting was also added. The Manzù Fountain stands as a reminder of Augsburg's rich history, its artistic heritage, and its commitment to creating a vibrant and welcoming city for all. It is a place where people can gather, relax, and appreciate the beauty of art in the heart of the city.