Augustins Fountain

The Augustinian fountain

The Basel audio-guided tour stops you before the Augustinian fountain, a discreet witness to several centuries of Basel history, surmounted by a legendary creature emblematic of the city.

The basilisk, symbol of Basel

A fountain is mentioned at this site as early as 1468. The present fountain was altered and moved here in 1846 to free the passage in the street. Its column, in dark red cast iron and decorated with angel heads, is surmounted by a basilisk. This mythical creature, half cock, half dragon, half serpent, has been one of the strongest symbols of Basel since the fifteenth century and often bears its arms. The name of the street recalls the presence of the Augustinians, a religious order installed here from the end of the thirteenth century.

What there is to see

The fountain holds the attention by its red cast-iron column, its angel heads and its basilisk, an essential figure of Basel imagination found on many fountains of the city. Still in service, its drinkable water flows continuously into the basin. It is a picturesque landmark, laden with symbols and local legends.

Practical information

The Augustinian fountain is in the old town of Basel, in the street of the Augustinians. It can be contemplated freely at all hours and on the level; its water is drinkable and flows continuously.

What is the basilisk of Basel?

A mythical creature half cock, half dragon, half serpent, symbol of the city since the fifteenth century, which surmounts the fountain and bears its arms.

Since when has a fountain existed at this site?

A fountain is mentioned there as early as 1468; the present fountain was moved here in 1846.