The Marksman Fountain

Water is everywhere in Berne, and the city is full of beautiful old fountains. Berne already had numerous water points back in the 13th century, with water drawn from an underground stream that fed into wells and cisterns. In the 1550s, the city replaced its wooden fountains with more artistic stone ones, like the one you’re looking at now. This is the Marksman Fountain, featuring a fully armoured officer holding the banner of the crossbow guild, which was dissolved in 1799. If you look closely, you’ll see a little bear aiming his rifle towards what was once the shooting club’s offices. Berne’s fountains aren’t just decorative, they’ve always been a part of everyday life. They used to be social spots where people came not only to fetch drinking water, but also to gossip or talk politics. If you spot smaller basins near the ground, those were meant for animals to drink from, back when cows and horses shared the streets with pedestrians. While you’re here, take a look at the cellar doors you see along the arcades. These trapdoors lead to underground spaces that once stored food supplies but now house cafés, souvenir shops and small restaurants. It’s a charming and unique feature of Berne, so go ahead, step down, take a look, and see what hidden gems you find.