The Enigmatic Tinguely Fountain: A Masterpiece in Motion
Explore the Tinguely Fountain in Basel, where art meets water in a delightful display of kinetic sculptures and creativity.
The Tinguely Fountain is a captivating tourist attraction located in Basel, Switzerland, renowned for its vibrant and dynamic display of art. Created by the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely in 1977, this extraordinary fountain is more than just a water feature; it embodies the spirit of creativity and innovation that characterizes Tinguely's work. The fountain consists of a series of whimsical, mechanical sculptures that come to life through the movement of water, offering spectators a delightful spectacle as they whirl, splash, and interact with the elements. Each sculpture is meticulously designed, showcasing Tinguely's unique artistic vision and ability to blend art with engineering. One of the most enchanting aspects of the Tinguely Fountain is its location, situated near the Basel Theater, which enhances the cultural ambiance of the area. Visitors can enjoy the fountain's playful choreography while relaxing on nearby benches or strolling through the surrounding gardens. The sound of splashing water combined with the visual delight of the moving sculptures creates a serene yet lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the city. The fountain is accessible year-round, and its mesmerizing display is especially enchanting in the evening when the lights illuminate the water and sculptures, creating a magical experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax, the Tinguely Fountain promises to be a highlight of your visit to Basel, leaving you with fond memories of this artistic marvel.
Local tips
- Visit during the evening to experience the fountain illuminated, enhancing its beauty.
- Bring a camera to capture the whimsical sculptures in action, especially on sunny days.
- Take a moment to relax on the nearby benches and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Basel Theater for a full cultural experience.
A brief summary to Tinguely Fountain
- Klostergasse 7, Basel, 4051, CH
- +41612686868
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from the Basel SBB train station, exit the station and head towards the main street (Messeplatz). Turn left onto Messeplatz and continue straight until you reach the intersection with Bahnhofstrasse. Turn right onto Bahnhofstrasse. Follow this street as it curves slightly to the left and becomes Centralbahnplatz. Continue walking straight until you reach Theaterplatz. From Theaterplatz, walk towards the Basel City Hall, then take a left onto Klostergasse. Tinguely Fountain will be on your right at Klostergasse 7.
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Tram
If you're near the Kunstmuseum Basel, walk to the nearest tram stop called Kunstmuseum. Take tram line 8 towards Leimen. After two stops, disembark at the stop called Theater. Once you exit the tram, walk directly towards Theaterplatz. At Theaterplatz, walk towards Basel City Hall, then turn left onto Klostergasse. Tinguely Fountain will be on your right at Klostergasse 7.
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Walking
Starting from the Marktplatz, where you can see the Basel City Hall, walk west towards the Theaterplatz. From Theaterplatz, take a left onto Klostergasse. Tinguely Fountain will be located on your right at Klostergasse 7.
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Bus
If you are near the Basel Minster, walk to the nearest bus stop called Münster. Take bus line 36 towards Basel, Dreispitz. After one stop, get off at Theater. From Theater, walk towards Theaterplatz, then turn left onto Klostergasse. Tinguely Fountain will be on your right at Klostergasse 7.
Attractions Nearby to Tinguely Fountain
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BaselCitytour. Bus-Stop 01 - Tinguely Brunnen
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Kunsthalle Basel
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Neptun Brunnen
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Stadtcasino Basel
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Offene Kirche Elisabethen
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Theater Basel
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Basel Historical Museum - Barfuesserkirche
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Barfüsserplatz
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Theater Basel - Schauspielhaus
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Historisches Museum Basel - Haus zum Kirschgarten
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Antikenmuseum Basel und Sammlung Ludwig
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Domhof
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Málaga Loves Basel mural
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Lohnhof
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Basel Historical Museum – Musikmuseum
Landmarks nearby to Tinguely Fountain
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Wall art of science
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Minster Cathedral Square
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Roman Well
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Schlaraffia Basilea
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Spiesshof
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Garden of the Old University
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Sevogel Brunnen
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Belle enseigne
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Jewish Museum of Switzerland
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Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel
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Basilia: Basiliskenrelief Alte Gewerbeschule
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Lällenkönig
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ciel de bâle
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vischer'scher garten
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Käppelijoch