Kindlifresserbrunnen
Bern's iconic 'Child-Eater Fountain,' a 16th-century sculpture with a chilling tale and debated symbolism. A must-see landmark.
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Kindlifresserbrunnen
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Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bern's iconic 'Child-Eater Fountain,' a 16th-century sculpture with a chilling tale and debated symbolism. A must-see landmark.
"A scary sculpture that will easily catch your attention when you're there. "
📸 Capture the Detail
The intricate carvings are fascinating. Get up close to appreciate the artistry of this unique statue.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
This fountain is one of many historical gems in Bern's UNESCO site. Allow time to wander and discover more.
Highlights
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The Child-Eater Statue
Marktgasse
A chillingly detailed sculpture of an ogre devouring a child, with more in his bag. A true conversation starter.
Historical Significance
Bern Old Town
One of Bern's iconic 'colored fountains,' offering a glimpse into 16th-century artistry and local lore.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Macabre
Part of a Larger Tour
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5 days in Switzerland from Zurich to Geneva - Itinerary suggestions!
📸 Capture the Detail
The intricate carvings are fascinating. Get up close to appreciate the artistry of this unique statue.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
This fountain is one of many historical gems in Bern's UNESCO site. Allow time to wander and discover more.
🤔 Ponder the Meaning
Theories abound about its symbolism. It's a great spot to discuss local legends and history.
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from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Detail
The intricate carvings are fascinating. Get up close to appreciate the artistry of this unique statue.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
This fountain is one of many historical gems in Bern's UNESCO site. Allow time to wander and discover more.
🤔 Ponder the Meaning
Theories abound about its symbolism. It's a great spot to discuss local legends and history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kindlifresserbrunnen a striking and memorable stop in Bern's Old Town, known for its detailed, albeit unsettling, depiction of an ogre and child. While its macabre theme is a point of fascination, some find it a bit disturbing. It's considered a key part of Bern's unique 'colored fountains' and a great conversation starter about local history and folklore.
"The ‘Child-Eater Fountain’ is the fifth of eleven colored figure fountains you will encounter when starting your UNESCO World Heritage Site zigzag discovery tour through Bern's old town from the railway station.
The fountain is a popular selfie spot for visitors of all kinds and features a seated ogre devouring a naked child. Placed at his side is a bag containing more children.
While there are many theories out there about the true meaning of this depiction, the one I find most pertinent is that the eight children on the fountain represent the eight cantons of the Old Swiss Confederacy and the ogre an enemy trying to gobble up the cantons. But we’ll probably never know for sure."
Christian Tohmé
"At the east end of Marktgasse, you'd find a painted fountain sculpture that was created in the 15th century, displaying an ogre eating a child whilst his other hand holding a bag of children that were going to be his food. There have been many theories of what this sculpture represents but no one could confirm.
It's a scary sculpture that will easily catch your attention when you're there."
Ken K
"The child eater. Must visit"
Diana Ayache
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kindlifresserbrunnen is located in the heart of Bern's Old Town, easily accessible on foot. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk from Bern station through the charming streets.
Yes, Bern's Old Town is very walkable and well-served by public transport. Trams and buses stop frequently near the main shopping streets where the fountain is located.
Driving directly to the fountain is not recommended as Bern's Old Town is largely pedestrianized. There are several parking garages nearby, such as the Rathaus Parking, from which you can walk to the fountain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Kindlifresserbrunnen is an outdoor public fountain and can be viewed freely at any time. It's part of the city's historical streetscape.
As an outdoor monument, the Kindlifresserbrunnen is accessible 24/7. However, it is best viewed during daylight hours for optimal visibility and photography.
There is no admission fee to see the Kindlifresserbrunnen. It is a free public attraction within Bern's Old Town.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and reducing crowds. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
No, photography is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Try capturing the full statue from a slight distance to include its context within the street, and then get closer to highlight the detailed, albeit macabre, features of the ogre and child.
🎫 🤔 History & Lore
The Kindlifresserbrunnen, or 'Child-Eater Fountain,' depicts an ogre devouring a child, with more in a sack. Its exact meaning is debated, with theories ranging from a warning to children to a symbol of political power.
The stone figure, dated 1543, is attributed to the Swiss sculptor Hans Gieng. It replaced an earlier wooden version.
One popular theory suggests the eight children represent the eight cantons of the Old Swiss Confederacy, with the ogre symbolizing an enemy trying to consume them. However, the true meaning remains a subject of speculation.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also a great opportunity to talk about the other, less macabre, fountains in Bern's Old Town, making it a fun scavenger hunt for kids as you explore the UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding streets are safe and pedestrian-friendly, perfect for little legs to explore.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & History Buffs
Take your time to observe the details, perhaps jot down your own theories, and then delve into local history resources or guided tours to learn more about its context within Bern's past. It's a landmark that rewards curiosity and encourages deeper engagement with the city's heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry and Symbolism of the Kindlifresserbrunnen
The true meaning of the Kindlifresserbrunnen remains a subject of much debate and local lore. One prominent theory suggests the ogre represents an enemy of Bern, attempting to devour the city's cantons, symbolized by the children. Another interpretation posits it served as a cautionary tale for disobedient children in the city. Regardless of its original intent, the fountain has become an iconic and somewhat unsettling landmark, sparking curiosity and conversation among visitors.
When exploring Bern's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, the Kindlifresserbrunnen stands out as a particularly memorable stop. It's not just a fountain; it's a piece of history that continues to intrigue and provoke thought, making it a must-see for those interested in the darker, more symbolic aspects of public art.
Navigating Bern's Old Town and its Fountains
Exploring these fountains is best done on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Bern. The Kindlifresserbrunnen is conveniently located on Marktgasse, a main thoroughfare, making it easy to find as you wander. Many visitors find it helpful to follow a self-guided walking tour or join a guided tour that highlights these unique water features.
When visiting, remember that these are active public spaces. While photography is encouraged, be respectful of the environment and other visitors. The fountains, including the Kindlifresserbrunnen, are integral to the character of Bern and offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's past and its artistic heritage.
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