Neptune Fountain · Audio guide
Hear the story of Neptune Fountain, right there
Not a guidebook entry. It's the story of this place: what you don't see at first glance and why it's worth coming. Some gems are narrated by an AI voice, others by people who know them.
How it works
- Go there: the app walks you there from wherever you are.
- Listen on the spot: the story plays when you arrive, in your language if it was recorded in it.
- Keep discovering: the Berlin map has more gems like this one, and you can put them together in a tour.
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Story
Four women surround the god of the sea in the heart of Berlin. Each represents a river, but one of them hides a detail that caused a scandal.
This fountain was a poisoned gift. The one who commissioned it and the one who received it hated each other, and the sculptor left clues in the bronze.
Neptune has been keeping this secret for over a century. Follow me to the fountain and I'll show you where to look.
Visiting Neptune Fountain
- How to get there
- The closest stop is U Rotes Rathaus bus stop, 80 meters away. The Rotes Rathaus metro/train stop is 94 meters away.
- Entry and price
- Entry is free.
- Opening hours
- The Neptune Fountain is always open.
Frequently asked questions
What is the history of the Neptune Fountain?
The Neptune Fountain was created by sculptor Reinhold Begas between 1888 and 1891 as a gift for Kaiser Wilhelm II. Originally located in front of the Berliner Stadtschloss, it was moved to its current location in 1969 after being stored for 18 years.
What are the main features of the Neptune Fountain?
The fountain stands 10 meters high and 18 meters in diameter. It features Neptune enthroned on a large shell, surrounded by tritons and various sea creatures. Four female figures around the edge represent the rivers Elbe, Rhine, Oder, and Vistula.
Why was the Neptune Fountain moved?
The fountain was moved after the Berliner Stadtschloss was demolished by the East German government in 1950. It was relocated to its current site in 1969, as part of a civic center in East Berlin.
What material is the Neptune Fountain made of?
Originally, the fountain's basin was made of unique Swedish red marble, which was lost during its dismantling in 1951. The current basin, installed in 1969, is made of red granite.
Is there anything nearby worth visiting?
Nearby attractions include the Marienkirche and the Rotes Rathaus. The area also features the Marx-Engels-Forum and the Humboldt Forum, which opened in 2021.
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