- Address: Gerechtigkeitsgasse, Altstadt, Bern, Switzerland
- Date of construction: 1543.
- Author of the project: Hans Ging
Bern is one of the richest cities in Switzerland . It is also famous for its fountains . There are about a hundred of them in all. There are historical references to the fact that already in the XIV century there were 5 such existing structures in the city. Today the historic center of Bern, the Old Town , is simply full of fountains. They are located almost one after another. The subjects of their crowning sculptures are very diverse - from the illustration of biblical plots to the depiction of the symbol of the city.
More about the fountain
Fountain "Justice" is one of the oldest in Bern . It was created in 1543 on the design of Hans Ging. It is a structure of several pools - in the center of the main, octagonal shape, and on the sides there are two additional ones. The material for the production was limestone. In the center of the pool is a pedestal. Bronze pipes are supplied to it, from which water is supplied. The pedestal itself is decorated with a perimeter frieze, and its statue is crowned in the form of a woman.
The fountain in Bern is called "Justice" in honor of the Roman goddess of justice. In its appearance, its basic features are easily guessed. In one hand a woman holds a scales, the other is armed with a sword. In front of the eyes, a bandage that symbolizes the impartiality of justice. In appearance, the features of the traditional Roman attire are guessed - a blue robe with gold armor and sandals on the legs. By the way, this is the only fountain in Bern, which has retained its original appearance. It is an object protected by the state, and has the status of a cultural monument of national importance.
Symbols of the fountain "Justice" in Berne
The sculptor wanted to convey to the admirer one simple but fundamental idea: the court must be equal for all, without regard to rank, rank, descent or financial status. This judgment highlights the image of the four figures at the feet of the statue. They are the Pope, the emperor, the sultan and the chairman of the cantonal council. It is these busts that represent the four forms of government in the Renaissance: theocracy, monarchy, republic and autocracy. It is worth noting that during this period, such topics about justice, justice and victory over vice were quite popular. It is reflected in some other cultural attractions of Bern.
However, not everyone liked the sculpture. Twice the statue was attacked by vandals. In 1798, she remained without the basic attributes of justice - the sword and weights. Half a century later, the characters were returned. And in 1986 the statue was damaged as a result of the fall - the members of the separatist group brought down the figure from the pedestal with a rope. The sculpture was sent for restoration, but it never returned to its pedestal. Instead, it was decided to place an exact copy. Today the original statue of Justice can be seen in the Historical Museum of Bern .
How to visit?
The fountain "Justice" in Bern is just a small fraction of the cultural heritage that the city can provide to you. But it carries a deep meaning, and its history does not leave indifferent. Located fountain in the street Gerechtigkeitsgasse. By bus, you can drive to the Rathaus stop, and walk a few minutes. Bus routes 12, 30, M3.
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