This fountain and sculpture is particularly popular with the Pänz (Kölsch: children) during a visit to the old town. Not so much because of its artistic design, but rather due to the fact that the fountain sculpture invites interaction and play. Even if there is a risk of getting wet, people jump, skip and splash around for all they're worth, especially on hot and sunny days. The intention of the artist, Eduardo Paolozzi, who intended to create an interactive work of art in which people can participate, is thus fully realised.
At the same time, past and present, as well as the immediate space, are united. The stone plinths incorporated into the fountain sculpture are remnants of the towers of the neighbouring Hohenzollern Bridge, which no longer exist and were demolished after the Second World War. They symbolise history and the past, as well as destruction and reconstruction at the same time. The abstract bronze elements in turn represent the modern city skyline as it is and can become. The water it contains, as an element that connects everything together, not only refers to the Rhine as such, but can also be interpreted as a fundamentally life-giving component.
It is remarkable how the Paolozzi Fountain helps to shape its surroundings in a modest way. It connects the urban spaces close to it by absorbing their elements and the people who move around in them and bringing them together.
At the same time, past and present, as well as the immediate space, are united. The stone plinths incorporated into the fountain sculpture are remnants of the towers of the neighbouring Hohenzollern Bridge, which no longer exist and were demolished after the Second World War. They symbolise history and the past, as well as destruction and reconstruction at the same time. The abstract bronze elements in turn represent the modern city skyline as it is and can become. The water it contains, as an element that connects everything together, not only refers to the Rhine as such, but can also be interpreted as a fundamentally life-giving component.
It is remarkable how the Paolozzi Fountain helps to shape its surroundings in a modest way. It connects the urban spaces close to it by absorbing their elements and the people who move around in them and bringing them together.
Useful Information
Eligibility
for Groups
for Class
for families
for individual guests
Pet allowed
Suitable for the Elderly
Parking facilities
The Paolozzi Fountain is located in the immediate vicinity (approx. 450 metres) of Cologne Central Station in the Rheingarten. This means that the fountain is very well connected to both national and regional public transport.
