Lindavia fountain
Lindavia: Oar and linden branch



The fish market is not usually a quiet place. However, Reichsplatz square near the Old Town Hall, where Lindau’s fish market used to be held, is wonderfully peaceful today. Here you will find the Lindavia fountain, whose beauty and soothing splashing water invite you to relax.
The fountain, made of light red marble, was designed by Munich sculptor Wilhelm Rümann. It was built to mark the 20th year of King Ludwig II of Bavaria’s reign. He was the legendary ‘fairy-tale king’ – so it’s easy to imagine that he would have liked this enchantingly beautiful fountain.
Inaugurated by the artist
In 1884, the Lindavia fountain was inaugurated by the artist himself in a festive ceremony. Bronze figures symbolising shipping, fishing, wine-growing and agriculture stand on the four round bowls. These are the economic sectors and crafts that generated the island city’s wealth at that time.
At the very top, towering above everything else, is Lindavia – the female personification of Lindau!
Lindavia wears a crown on her head and holds an oar in her left hand and a linden branch in her right. The oar, of course, represents shipping on Lake Constance – but what about the linden branch? That’s no coincidence either: the Lindau coat of arms has featured a linden tree since the 13th century. Even back then, Lindau was known as the ‘island where linden trees grow’.
Just relax
If you are looking for some peace and quiet after a stroll through the city or some sporting activity, this listed fountain is just the place for you. In summer, large deciduous trees provide pleasant, cooling shade. The lime trees among them bloom in spring and smell wonderful. Children can let off steam at the fountain itself and on the small playground next door. Listen to the splashing of the water and the chirping of the birds, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and watch the hustle and bustle around you – because that’s also part of a holiday in Lindau.




