Roland Fountain, Renaissance fountain in Main Square, Slovakia
The Roland Fountain is a Renaissance fountain in the Old Town square featuring a circular basin and a tall central column topped with a knight figure. The structure sits prominently in the middle of the plaza, creating a focal point that rises above the surrounding pavement.
The fountain was commissioned in 1572 by King Maximilian II following a fire that erupted during his coronation, revealing the need for water reserves. It was designed to serve as both a practical water source and a symbol of royal authority in the city.
The knight statue at the center embodies a protector of city rights and draws people's gaze from every angle of the square. Visitors naturally gather around it, making this monument the focal point where locals and travelers naturally converge.
The fountain is accessible year-round and sits directly on the main plaza of the Old Town. Nearby bus stops are within walking distance, making it easy to reach on foot from surrounding neighborhoods.
A local legend claims the knight figure turns toward the former town hall at midnight on New Year's Eve and bows. This story has been retold for generations, adding a touch of mystery to the monument.
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