Märchenbrunnen

The Märchenbrunnen is a modern fountain in Munich’s Schwabing district, standing on Ernst-Toller-Platz before the Oskar-von-Miller-Gymnasium. Barbara Hammann designed the bronze sculpture in 1999, funded by a bequest the city had received for this purpose. Seven pointed caps form the central feature, each spouting water from its tip. The name links to letters written by Ernst Toller while in prison, in which he spoke of sending fairy-tale books to lift the burden of being only human. His words celebrate the bond between fairy tales and every living thing—animals, flowers and waters. The fountain’s design reflects that idea of connection. Visitors see the seven bronze caps arranged around a circular basin, water rising gently from each pointed top. The plaza itself is quiet, bordered by the school’s façade and a few benches. The bronze has taken on a soft green patina over time, blending with the surroundings.