Galateabrunnen

The Galateabrunnen stands on an observation platform at Eugensplatz in Stuttgart-Mitte. It was created in 1890 by architect and sculptor Otto Rieth and bronze founder Paul Stotz. The fountain is one of the most elaborate in the city, crowned by a bronze figure of the sea nymph Galateia. It overlooks the city centre from a hillside position. The design was chosen by Queen Olga of Württemberg, who overruled the competition’s winning entry.

The fountain’s story begins with Queen Olga, who in 1884 promoted its construction to beautify Stuttgart. The city held a competition won by architects Ludwig Eisenlohr and Carl Weigle with sculptor Wilhelm von Rümann. Queen Olga instead selected Rieth’s third-placed design. Funding came from public donations and a large gift from her private fortune. After wartime damage and later neglect, the fountain was restored and returned to service in 2007.

Visitors find a stepped terrace leading down from Eugensplatz past the fountain’s sculpted base. Water flows from a crowned lion’s head into a stone basin, then cascades to a lower pool. Bronze waves, seaweed and fish coil around Galateia’s feet, with two cherubs among them. A bearded mask on the hillside serves as a drinking fountain. The surrounding Eugenstaffel steps continue down toward the city centre, offering views over Stuttgart.