The Moses Fountain

The Moses fountain

A stop on the Berne audio-guided tour, the Moses fountain bears a colourful statue representing the prophet. Built in 1544, it was damaged by a storm and rebuilt in the 1790s.

The Tablets of the Law

The statue represents Moses holding the Ten Commandments received from God on Mount Sinai. He is depicted with two rays coming from his head, in reference to Exodus, which tells that his skin became radiant after his encounter with God. The fountain is listed as a Swiss cultural property of national importance.

What to see

Like the other fountains of Berne, the Moses fountain brings a touch of art and colour to the streets of the old town. Observe the statue of the prophet and the Tablets of the Law, a major episode of the biblical tradition, on this open square in the centre.

Practical information

The Moses fountain is on an open square in Berne's old town, near the collegiate church. Freely accessible, it can be seen at any time.

What does Moses hold on the fountain ?

The Ten Commandments, or Tablets of the Law, received from God on Mount Sinai.

When was the Moses fountain rebuilt ?

In the 1790s, after being damaged by a storm.