Beautiful Fountain, Renaissance water well in Nysa, Poland
The Beautiful Fountain is a Renaissance well with a marble casing decorated with intricate ironwork. The structure stands as a functional water source that served the city while displaying craftsmanship typical of its era.
The ironwork was created in 1686 by Wilhelm Helleweg, master locksmith at the bishop's court, commissioned by Mayor Kaspar Naas. This period saw such fountains become important public infrastructure projects.
The decoration includes plant ornaments, animal figures, and sea creatures topped with a gilded double-headed Habsburg eagle. These elements reflect the tastes of wealthy patrons who commissioned the work.
The well is located in the old town and easily accessible on foot from the city center. Visitors can view the structure from all angles, with the best views during daylight hours.
During World War II, the ironwork was hidden within Nysa's fortifications to protect it from air raids. This effort allowed the valuable piece to survive the war and remain intact today.
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