Fischbrunnen — Attraction in Munich

Fischbrunnen is a small but iconic fountain right in front of the Neues Rathaus at Marienplatz. Though unassuming at first glance, it carries a lot of history and local tradition. The fountain was rebuilt after WWII, preserving its original charm, and today it serves as a popular meeting point for both locals and tourists.

A fun fact: every Ash Wednesday, Munich’s bankers and politicians take part in a symbolic “money-washing” ritual here, meant to bring good fortune for the year ahead. The fountain also features bronze fish sculptures, a nod to its historical connection with the city’s fish market.

While it may not be the grandest landmark in Munich, Fischbrunnen is a lovely piece of the city’s history and a great spot to take a quick break while exploring Marienplatz....

Fish's Fountain (Fischbrunnen) is one of two fountains at Marienplatz in the Old Town of Munich, this being by far the more interesting and impressive to see. The Fish Fountain was designed by German sculptor Josef Henselman in 1954 replacing an earlier fountain that was destroyed during WWII.

Here you will see a fat fish atop a pedestal surrounded by four seated figures who are pouring water into a large octagon-shaped basin. The outside of the basin includes engravings of livestock and other market related scenes. It is an attractive landmark worth spending a couple minutes to enjoy when you visit...

This Fischbrunnen is a fountain in the middle of Marienplatz called the Fish Fountain because of the sculpture of a fish atop a central column. The fish alludes to the past when the Marienplatz served as a market place and the fishmongers used to hang their still living goods in baskets in the fresh fountain water. Around the column is three young butchers apprentices pouring water into the basin of the fountain.

There's a tradition that on Ash Wednesday, the mayor and chamberlain of Munich will wash an empty wallet in the fountain to ensure that the city funds will be replenished...