Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen
A 16th-century Bernese fountain featuring Lady Justice, symbolizing fairness and the submission of earthly powers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century Bernese fountain featuring Lady Justice, symbolizing fairness and the submission of earthly powers.
"A must-see historical monument with rich symbolism, offering a glimpse into Bern's past."
🚶♀️ Walkable from Train Station
About a 20-minute walk from Bern's main train station, enjoy the arcades and other fountains along the way.
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
The water from the fountain is noted as 'super delicious' and is a great spot to refresh.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lady Justice Monument
Center of the fountain
A striking 16th-century statue of Lady Justice in golden armor, holding a sword and scales, symbolizing fairness.
Symbolic Busts
Base of the monument
Four busts representing earthly powers—Pope, Emperor, Sultan, and official—with closed eyes, signifying submission.
Original Design
The entire fountain
The only Bernese fountain to retain all its original 16th-century design elements, a true cultural heritage gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Crowds
Understanding the 'Tickets'
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚶♀️ Walkable from Train Station
About a 20-minute walk from Bern's main train station, enjoy the arcades and other fountains along the way.
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
The water from the fountain is noted as 'super delicious' and is a great spot to refresh.
📸 Capture the Details
Take time to photograph Lady Justice and the unique busts at her feet for a deeper appreciation.
🗺️ Fountain Discovery Tour
This is one of 11 iconic figurine fountains in Bern; consider it part of a larger fountain-hopping adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable from Train Station
About a 20-minute walk from Bern's main train station, enjoy the arcades and other fountains along the way.
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
The water from the fountain is noted as 'super delicious' and is a great spot to refresh.
📸 Capture the Details
Take time to photograph Lady Justice and the unique busts at her feet for a deeper appreciation.
🗺️ Fountain Discovery Tour
This is one of 11 iconic figurine fountains in Bern; consider it part of a larger fountain-hopping adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen as a must-see historical monument in Bern, appreciating its detailed 16th-century design and rich symbolism. Many enjoy its central location and the opportunity to refill water bottles. Some note that it can get crowded, impacting the viewing experience during peak hours.
"Located in the heart of Berne’s Old Town, the ‘Fountain of Justice’ is the tenth of 11 iconic figurine fountains dating back to the 16th century you will spot when starting your zigzag fountain discovery tour from the city’s train station.
The life-sized statue on the pillar is ‘Lady Justice’ who stands tall in a golden suit of armor over blue robes, holding a sword & scales and wearing a blindfold. At her feet, there are busts of a Pope, an Emperor, a Sultan and a local official that represent the Four Earthly Powers, each with closed eyes in submission.
Notably, it is the only Bernese fountain to retain all original design elements and listed as a cultural heritage site of national significance. In terms of symbolism, it is also my favorite of the eleven sister fountains!"
Christian Tohmé
"One of the many water fountains that pepper Bern, with each of having their own unique design. Quite a far walk from the main train station and you can also see other water fountains along the way, but still worth to just take a picture or refill your bottle here. Good view of the main street too with less crowd."
Luke Phang
"If you walk from the main train station it might take you about 20 minutes to reach this fountain, which is quite close to the Nydeggkirche. This statue is a copy of the original, which was destroyed by vandals back in the 80's. Still it is a very beautiful fountain like the others located all around Bern."
Alejandro Montiel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen is approximately a 20-minute walk from Bern's main train station. You'll pass through the city's charming arcades and can spot other fountains along the route.
While walking is recommended to enjoy the city, trams and buses also serve the area near the fountain. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
Parking in Bern's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's advisable to use public transport or walk if possible.
Absolutely! The Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen is centrally located and easily incorporated into a day trip exploring Bern's Old Town.
Many visitors enjoy a self-guided walking tour, starting from the train station and discovering the 11 unique fountains, including the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen is a public, open-air fountain and does not require any tickets for viewing. +1
As an outdoor public fountain, it is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours offers the best experience for viewing the details.
There is no entrance fee. Access to the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen is completely free for all visitors.
During peak times, there might be a queue to get right up to the fountain. Visiting during off-peak hours or late at night can offer more unobstructed access.
No, it is a standalone historical monument and a functional fountain within the city, not part of a ticketed attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late evenings are ideal for photography to avoid crowds and capture softer light. Golden hour can also provide beautiful lighting.
Focus on the detailed statue of Lady Justice, the symbolic busts at her feet, and the overall composition of the fountain within its historic setting.
While there are no explicit rules against tripods for public spaces, be mindful of crowds and avoid obstructing pedestrian flow.
Yes, you can photograph the water. Some visitors even enjoy capturing the refreshing aspect of the fountain.
Use a wider aperture for portraits of the statues and a narrower aperture for landscape shots of the fountain and its surroundings. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance colors.
🎫 💧 Onsite Experience
It symbolizes justice, with Lady Justice blindfolded, holding a sword and scales. The busts at her feet represent earthly powers in submission.
Yes, the water from Bern's public fountains is generally potable and many locals and visitors refill their bottles.
A quick photo stop might take 10-15 minutes, but to appreciate the details and symbolism, allow 30 minutes.
Public restrooms are available in the vicinity of Bern's Old Town, though not directly at the fountain itself.
Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen is one of 11 historical fountains in Bern. You'll encounter others like the Zytglogge and the Kindlifresserbrunnen as you explore the Old Town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip for families: Consider making it a game to spot the different figures and discuss their roles. The fountain's location in the heart of the Old Town means you're never far from cafes or shops if little ones need a break. Remember that the water is potable, so it can be a fun spot to refill water bottles on a warm day.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Money-saving tip: Instead of buying bottled water, bring a reusable bottle and refill it directly from the fountain – the water is safe and delicious!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism of Justice
Beneath Lady Justice, four busts represent the Four Earthly Powers: a Pope, an Emperor, a Sultan, and a local official. Their closed eyes and posture of submission beneath the blindfolded Lady Justice are a stark reminder that justice is meant to be applied equally, regardless of status or worldly power. This detail is often highlighted by visitors as particularly thought-provoking.
What makes the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen particularly significant is that it is the only Bernese fountain to retain all its original 16th-century design elements. This historical integrity, combined with its profound symbolism, makes it a cultural heritage site of national importance and a favorite among those who appreciate its deeper meaning.
Exploring Bern's Fountain Network
Many visitors recommend embarking on a fountain discovery tour from the main train station. This self-guided exploration allows you to weave through the charming streets and arcades of Bern, encountering each fountain sequentially. The Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen is often encountered midway through such a tour, offering a significant visual and symbolic stop.
Beyond the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen, other notable fountains include the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), the Kindlifresserbrunnen (Ogre Fountain), and the Pfeiferbrunnen (Piper Fountain). Each offers its own story and artistic merit, contributing to Bern's rich historical tapestry and providing ample opportunities for photography and cultural appreciation.
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