Source of the Danube, Spring and tourist attraction in Donaueschingen, Germany.
The Source of the Danube is a karst spring in a palace garden in Donaueschingen, Germany. A small blue basin sits within wrought iron railings and stone borders, surrounded by low walls and sculptures from the late 19th century.
Since the 15th century this spot has been recognized as the starting point of the second-longest river in Europe, flowing through ten countries. The present arrangement with basin and sculptures was created in the late 19th century on commission from the princely family.
Adolf Heer carved two figures showing the Baar region as a mother walking beside her daughter, representing the river heading east. Visitors see the sculptures placed right at the edge of the blue basin and can follow the symbolic connection to the landscape.
The site is located in the palace grounds on Fürstenbergstraße, with signs pointing the way to the installation. Access is open during daylight hours and the paths around the basin are paved and suitable for wheelchairs.
The water emerges at a flow rate between 15 and 70 liters (4 to 18.5 gallons) per second and then travels 90 meters (295 feet) underground. Only after that does the stream meet the Brigach and both form the river that reaches the Black Sea.
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