Tinguely Fountain
Basel-Stadt
The Tinguely Fountain, also known as Fasnachts-Brunnen, is a dynamic public fountain located on Theaterplatz in Basel, Switzerland. Created by artist Jean Tinguely between 1975 and 1977, it features ten mechanical sculptures constructed partly from movable parts of the old Basel city theater's stage equipment. These whimsical figures are powered by low-voltage motors that animate the sculptures and spray water jets, showcasing Tinguely's signature kinetic art style. The fountain basin is irregularly shaped, measuring approximately 16 by 19 meters, with shallow water about 19 centimeters deep, and is sealed with asphalt. Around the fountain, stone benches are placed near bushes and hedges, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the lively spectacle. The fountain is a modern symbol of Basel's vibrant Fasnacht (carnival) tradition, reflecting the joy and festivity of the local culture. It is one of three Basel fountains that neither supply drinking water nor are intended for bathing. The fountain is maintained year-round with special measures to protect the sculptures from frost damage during winter months. The ten sculptures have unique names such as "the Theater Head" and "the Claw," each contributing to the fountain's whimsical character. The fountain was a gift from the Migros cooperative on its 50th anniversary and has become an iconic landmark of Basel, though it is not protected as a historic monument.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Tinguely Fountain is during Basel's Fasnacht carnival season to experience its full cultural context and festive atmosphere. The fountain operates year-round, but warmer months offer a more engaging water display. No entrance fee is required, and visitors can enjoy the fountain freely in the public square. Seating is available around the fountain for rest and observation. Since the fountain is outdoors and open, no advance ticket reservations are necessary. Visitors should be aware that the fountain water is not potable and the fountain is not for bathing.
Faits intéressants
- •The fountain's ten mechanical sculptures are partly made from movable parts of the former Basel city theater's stage equipment.
- •It was a gift from the Migros cooperative on its 50th anniversary to the city of Basel.
- •The fountain's water basin is shallow, with only about 19 centimeters of water depth, and is sealed with asphalt to ensure waterproofing.
- •The fountain is one of three in Basel that neither provide drinking water nor are intended for bathing.
- •Special frost protection measures are employed to keep the sculptures safe during winter, as the water is not drained.
- •The fountain's sculptures have individual names reflecting whimsical characters, such as 'the Theater Head' and 'the Claw'.
- •In 2002, the fountain's 25th anniversary was marked by a special event with illumination and fireworks.
Histoire
The Tinguely Fountain was constructed between 1975 and 1977 on the site of the old Basel city theater stage, which had been demolished.
It was commissioned as a gift from the Migros cooperative to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
The fountain embodies Jean Tinguely's artistic philosophy of kinetic sculpture, utilizing mechanical parts from the former theater's stage equipment to create moving water sculptures.
Over time, it has become a beloved symbol of Basel's Fasnacht carnival, representing the city's festive spirit.
Despite its cultural importance, the fountain is not listed as a protected monument.
In 2002, its 25th anniversary was celebrated with special illumination and fireworks.
Guide du lieu
The Theater Head (dr Theaterkopf)1975-1977
A mechanical sculpture representing a theatrical head, composed of moving parts from the old city theater stage, spraying water and animated by electric motors.
The Claw (dr Schuufler)1975-1977
One of the whimsical mechanical sculptures featuring moving parts that spray water, named 'the Claw', showcasing Tinguely's kinetic art style.
Contact
Téléphone: 061 268 68 68