The Beautiful Fountain, or Schöner Brunnen, rises above Nürnberg’s Hauptmarkt like a miniature Gothic church spire. Built between about 1385 and 1396, the nearly 19-metre-high monument is decorated with 40 figures representing philosophy, religion and the rulers of the Holy Roman Empire. Its elaborate tiers make it one of the most distinctive sights in Nürnberg’s medieval old town.
The fountain visible today is a replica installed in the early 20th century; surviving parts of the medieval original are preserved in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. Around the fountain, look for the brass ring set into the wrought-iron railing. Local tradition holds that turning it brings good luck, though the stories about how many turns are needed vary.
The fountain is free to see at any time and easy to combine with a visit to the Frauenkirche on the same square. Come early for a quieter look at the details, or visit after dark when the monument is illuminated. During Advent, Hauptmarkt hosts Nürnberg’s famous Christkindlesmarkt, making the area especially atmospheric—and busy.