Simsonbrunnen, 16th century fountain in Kramgasse, Switzerland
Simsonbrunnen is a 16th century fountain on Kramgasse featuring an octagonal basin with a central pillar topped by a statue of Samson fighting a lion with bare hands. The water flows freely from this historical structure, which still serves as a drinking fountain.
The fountain was erected in 1527 and enlarged in 1544 with an octagonal basin and a figure by Hans Gieng. Originally called Schaalbrunnen, it became Metzgernbrunnen in 1687 and received its current name in 1827. The column and figure were replaced by copies by Werner Dubi in 1973; the originals are in the Historisches Museum.
The figure wears Roman clothing and holds butcher tools, suggesting a connection to the medieval butchers' guild of Bern. Visitors can see this craft heritage reflected in the statue's details today.
The fountain sits on Kramgasse in central Bern and is easy to reach on foot. The water is drinkable and the location is accessible at any time, making it a convenient stop while exploring the city.
The figure on the column is a 1973 copy by Werner Dubi; the original is kept in the Historisches Museum. Samson grips a donkey's jawbone, the weapon of Judges 15:15–17, and also carries a butcher's tools, which may point to the butchers' guild as donor.
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