Ryfflibrunnen (Ryffli Fountain), Bern

The Ryffli Fountain (Ryfflibrunnen) in Bern stands as a remarkable historical monument nestled in the heart of Bern’s old town. Constructed in 1545, this fountain replaced an earlier 14th-century structure and was initially known as Golatenmattgass Fountain (Golatenmattgassbrunnen) until the 19th century when it adopted its current name. The renaming of the fountain ties into a local legend suggesting the statue atop the fountain depicts the mythical marksman Ryffli. According to Konrad Justinger's chronicle, Ryffli famously killed the knight Jordan III of Burgistein with a precise shot after the battle of Laupen. The story recounts that Jordan III carelessly showed himself at a window during the Bernese siege of his castle, providing Ryffli the perfect opportunity to strike.

Other theories suggest that the statue represents Captain Anton Güder rather than Ryffli. Regardless of its true inspiration, the fountain’s figure is a creation of the journeymen of Hans Gieng, showcasing a crossbowman captain dressed in period military attire. The statue is fully equipped, featuring a crossbow slung over the shoulder, a quiver of bolts on the back, and a firing pin for weapon cocking. Complementing this martial figure is a small bear outfitted with a flintlock rifle, adding a whimsical yet historical touch to the fountain’s ensemble.

Today, the Ryffli Fountain not only serves as a functional piece of urban infrastructure but also as a cultural icon, reflecting the rich historical tapestry and the storied past of Bern. This fountain, like many others in Bern's old town, combines art, history, and legend, making it a focal point of local heritage and a must-see for visitors to the city.