Muschelquelle, Natural spring in Wiesenttal, Germany

Muschelquelle is a spring in Wiesenttal that covers approximately 10 by 10 meters and emerges at an elevation of about 370 meters. Over time, the mineral-rich water has left calcareous deposits that create the characteristic formations found at this type of spring.

The springhouse was built in 1910 from calcareous tufa quarried below the spring, and the water served the drinking supply of surrounding villages until 1968. The tufa itself formed during a warm period around 120,000 years ago. The Bavarian State Office for the Environment lists the spring as geotope 474Q001 and as natural monument ND-04593.

The spring is a place where visitors can explore the landscape of Naturpark Fränkische Schweiz and learn about the importance of springs in the region's water system. Many people use the site to observe nature and understand the geological features that shape their surroundings.

Access to the spring is available via field paths, which can become slippery during wet weather, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The location sits in hilly terrain, so allow extra time for the walk to reach it.

The springhouse was built in 1910 from calcareous tufa quarried just below the spring; the stone had formed during a warm period around 120,000 years ago. The building served the drinking water supply of the surrounding villages until 1968. Above the spring, the Schneiderloch, a karst cave about 50 metres long, sometimes carries water during heavy rain.