Mendebrunnen

Leipzig, a city with a rich historical past, is home to a treasure from times gone by - the Mendebrunnen. This majestic neo-baroque fountain, built in 1886, sits proudly on Augustusplatz and tells a fascinating story.

Created by the talented architects Adolf Gnauth and Jacob Ungerer, the Mendebrunnen is a living testament to the former glory of Augustusplatz, once considered one of the most magnificent city squares in Europe. But the name of the fountain tells an even more interesting story. It owes its name to Marianne Pauline Mende, a remarkable woman of the 19th century.

Marianne Pauline Mende, the widow of the Leipzig merchant, banker and patron of the arts Carl Mende, left in her will the donation of a fountain to beautify the city. However, the construction costs exceeded the endowment sum. With the help of the estate of banker and merchant Franz Dominic Grassi, the fountain was finally built.

The Mende Fountain itself is a masterpiece of neo-baroque architecture that brings Roman flair to Augustusplatz. The design was inspired by famous Roman fountains such as the Trevi Fountain in Rome. With its allegorical figures, including Tritons, Nereids and Hippocamps, the fountain tells the story of water as a life-giving force and economic asset for Leipzig.

Despite the changes to Augustusplatz over the years, the Mende Fountain retains its unique charisma. It is not only a historical monument, but also a popular spot for passers-by and photographers who admire the beauty and history of this jewel. The Mendebrunnen is an indispensable part of Leipzig's cultural heritage and a fascinating testimony to times gone by.