Kindlifresserbrunnen

Overview

The Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain) is one of Bern's most unusual and debated medieval fountains. Erected in 1546, it depicts an ogre devouring a child while clutching a sack of more children, and has puzzled historians and visitors for nearly five centuries.

Highlights

• Bizarre Sculpture: The vividly painted ogre figure is both disturbing and fascinating — one of the most photographed objects in Bern.
• Debated Meaning: Theories range from an anti-Semitic caricature to a warning to naughty children to a depiction of the Greek god Kronos.
• Historic Fountain Series: Part of a set of 11 figurative fountains scattered along the Old Town streets, all carved in the 1540s.

History

The fountain was carved by Hans Gieng in 1546 as part of a campaign to replace Bern's older wooden fountains with stone versions. The identity and meaning of the ogre figure remain unresolved. It stands at the Kornhausplatz, near the entrance to the Old Town from the north.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Look for the other 10 historic fountains along Kramgasse and adjacent streets — they form a trail through the Old Town.
• Tip 2: Best visited as part of a walk along Kramgasse; 5–10 minutes is enough to appreciate it.
• Duration: 5–10 minutes.