Poznań fountains are part of the city’s character. From mythological figures guarding the Old Market Square to hidden courtyards and a star-shaped pool in Wilson Park, they add life, history, and charm to a stroll through the city. This is a straightforward walking guide to Poznań fountains—covering what they are, where to find them, and how to fit them into a relaxed city walk.
Starting point: Taschner’s ornate well
Begin your walk at ul. Grobla near the Ethnographic Museum. Here you’ll find Studzienka Ignacego Taschnera, first unveiled in 1908 and reinstalled in this spot in 1992. The fountain is decorated with children and dolphins, designed in an art-nouveau style by Ignacy Taschner. For anyone who loves sculpture, this is one of the most artistic of Poznań fountains and a great way to start the tour before heading into the Old Town.
New archeological discoveries in Greater PolandThe mythological guardians of the Old Market Square
From ul. Grobla it’s only a short walk to Stary Rynek. On each corner of the Old Market Square stand four mythological figures: Neptune, Mars, Apollo, and Proserpina. Proserpina’s fountain is the only original, created in 1766 by Augustine Schöps, while the others are modern reconstructions installed in the early 2000s. Together, they set the tone for Poznań fountains: decorative, symbolic, and tightly tied to the city’s history. The Old Market Square is also the busiest stop on this route, so expect plenty of people around.
The Bamberg girl: Studzienka Bamberki
Just steps from the Town Hall is the Bamberka well. This modest but iconic piece shows a Bamberg woman in traditional dress carrying buckets of water. Originally installed in 1915, the statue has been moved several times before finally returning to the Market Square in 2024. For many locals, Bamberka is just as symbolic as the Town Hall’s goats, making it a must-see on any walk of Poznań fountains.
From the Market to Plac Wolności: Hygieia’s well
A short walk down Paderewskiego Street leads to Plac Wolności, home to one of the city’s oldest water monuments: the Hygieia well. Erected in 1841 in honor of hydrotherapy pioneer Vincenz Priessnitz, it shows the goddess of health and cleanliness. Over time it has been restored and relocated, but today it sits prominently in front of the Raczyński Library. As you continue exploring Poznań fountains, Hygieia adds a layer of civic history to the mix.
Kronthal’s dolphins on Marcinkowskiego Avenue
From Plac Wolności it’s only a few minutes to another highlight: the Kronthal fountain at Al. Marcinkowskiego and ul. 23 Lutego. Donated in 1909 by merchant Gustaw Kronthal and sculpted by Hugo Lederer, it shows children riding dolphins. More playful in style, it reminds visitors that Poznań fountains are not just about solemn gods and figures but also about lighter, artistic touches.
The perfect spot for a charming walk: explore Park Sołacki and its history!Lions in the Rose Courtyard
Continuing toward the Imperial District, make a stop at the Rose Courtyard near the Imperial Castle. The Lions Fountain is a quieter, more intimate spot, framed by heavy stone architecture and greenery. Unlike the central square’s busy fountains, this one shows how Poznań fountains can create a calm atmosphere within a historic urban setting.
The star-shaped fountain in Wilson Park
End your walk in Łazarz at Wilson Park, home to the city’s largest and most spectacular fountain. Built for the 1929 National Exhibition (PeWuKa) by architect Roger Sławski, it once featured colored lighting effects and still impresses visitors today. Surrounded by greenery and right next to the Palm House, it’s a natural finale for a day exploring Poznań fountains.
One of the most beloved attractions of Poznań: read more about the Palm House!How to plan the route
Poznań fountains usually operate from spring until autumn, switched on by city services around late April or early May. To follow this route, start at ul. Grobla (Taschner’s well), then head into the Old Market for the mythological fountains and Bamberka. From there, walk to Plac Wolności (Hygieia), continue to Al. Marcinkowskiego (Kronthal), visit the Lions Fountain in the Rose Courtyard, and finish in Wilson Park. It’s an easy half-day walk that shows just how diverse Poznań fountains really are!
