Landmark
Schöner Brunnen
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Schöner Brunnen, or Beautiful Fountain, is one of Nuremberg's most beloved landmarks. Erected between 1385 and 1396, this 19-meter-high Gothic spire stands on the main market square, surrounded by colorful stalls. The fountain is adorned with 40 intricately carved figures representing the Holy Roman Empire's worldview: prophets, electors, and philosophers. Its most famous feature is the golden ring set into the wrought-iron fence, locals believe that turning it three times brings good luck or fulfills a wish. Visitors often queue to touch the ring, which has been polished to a brilliant shine by countless hands. The fountain is a masterpiece of medieval stonework, with delicate tracery and a multi-tiered structure that resembles a church steeple. Despite being a replica (the original is in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum), it remains a vibrant gathering point and a must-see photo opportunity.
Don't miss
- Turn the golden ring three times for good luck
- Admire the 40 carved figures, including Moses and the seven Electors
- Visit at dusk when the fountain is illuminated
- See the original fountain at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Schöner Brunnen
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inWalking tour Nuremberg4.9★ · 225 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →
Most bookedMedieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish5★ · 1,611 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →
Top ratedNuremberg Old Town and Nazi Rally Grounds Tour with Lunch Break4.6★ · 521 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$43 per personSee dates →More attractions in Nuremberg