The Zähringen Fountain

The Zahringen fountain

A stop on the Berne audio-guided tour, the Zahringen fountain pays tribute to Berthold V of Zahringen, founder of the city in 1191. It was built in 1535.

The bear, emblem of Berne

On the column stands a bear in armour, bearing a shield and a banner stamped with the coat of arms of the Zahringen family. A second bear, at its feet, recalls the legend of the city: the founder, looking for where to establish his colony, is said to have killed a bear on the peninsula formed by the Aare, giving the city its name.

What to see

The original basin was octagonal; it was replaced in 1889 by a copy of that of the bagpiper fountain, and the fountain repainted the same year. Observe the proud bear that watches over the Kramgasse, a symbol of Bernese identity.

Practical information

The Zahringen fountain is on the Kramgasse, in Berne's old town. Freely accessible, it can be seen at any time.

Whom does the Zahringen fountain honour ?

To Berthold V of Zahringen, founder of Berne in 1191.

What does the fountain's bear recall ?

The legend of the founding of Berne, whose name is said to come from the bear killed by its founder.