Gauß-Denkmal, Denkmal in Braunschweig
The Gauß-Denkmal is a bronze statue honoring one of the 19th century's greatest mathematicians, standing near Gaußberg in Brunswick since 1880. The roughly 8-foot (2.5 meter) sculpture depicts the figure in a coat and velvet cap, holding one of his principal works, mounted on a polished red granite base with inscriptions.
The monument was unveiled in 1880, exactly a century after its subject's birth, and designed by artist Fritz Schaper. Its location next to Gaußberg connects it to the surveying work conducted there, where methods for mapping were tested and refined.
The monument honors a local figure whose gifts were recognized early in his hometown. It reflects how the city valued intellectual achievement and supported those who would become leaders in science.
The monument sits on a quiet plaza at Gaußberg and is easily accessible; the simple iron fence allows clear sightlines from every direction. The peaceful setting invites visitors to linger for photos and reflection while walking through the city.
The statue holds his principal work Disquisitiones Arithmeticae in hand, which he published at just 21 years old. The base features a golden 17-sided polygon, which he was the first to prove could be constructed using only compass and straightedge.
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