Fountain "The Deluge" in Bydgoszcz

The Fountain The Deluge in Bydgoszcz, known locally as Fontanna Potop, is an awe-inspiring sculptural masterpiece that has captivated both locals and tourists since its inception. Nestled in the picturesque Kazimierz Wielki Park, this monumental fountain tells a dramatic story through its intricate bronze figures, making it one of the city's most cherished landmarks.

The Creation of the Fountain

The Fountain The Deluge was the brainchild of the Berlin-based sculptor Ferdinand Lepcke. The creation of this monumental work began after Lepcke won a competition organized in 1897 by the National Commission for the Promotion of Fine Arts in Poznań. The project took six years to complete, and the fountain was finally unveiled on July 23, 1904. The unveiling ceremony was a grand affair, attended by dignitaries from Berlin and Poznań, as well as the people of Bydgoszcz.

Constructed from bronze, the fountain stands at an impressive height of 6 meters and weighs a staggering 9 tons. The base of the fountain is made from red sandstone, while the steps are crafted from gray Silesian granite. The surrounding pavement is adorned with a mosaic pattern, adding to the overall grandeur of the site.

The Dramatic Sculptures

The Fountain The Deluge depicts the biblical story of the Great Flood, capturing the harrowing moment when both humans and animals are struggling for survival. The central figure of the composition is a man who, with his left arm, supports a fainting woman, while his other hand reaches out to pull another man onto a rock. At the base of the rock lies a young mother who has succumbed to exhaustion but has managed to save her child, who looks around helplessly at the watery wasteland. Nearby, a lion climbs the rock, seemingly indifferent to the plight of the humans.

To the left of the central group is a solitary bear, its head turned eastward, with its right paw resting on the rock. In its clenched jaws, the bear holds the lifeless body of its cub. This poignant scene adds to the overall sense of tragedy and desperation depicted in the fountain.

The third group of sculptures draws inspiration from Greek mythology. It portrays a man locked in a fierce battle with a sea serpent, reminiscent of the famous Laocoön group. The tension and muscular effort of the struggle are vividly captured, adding a dynamic element to the composition.

A Turbulent History

The Fountain The Deluge quickly became a beloved feature of Bydgoszcz, attracting visitors who marveled at its dramatic and evocative design. However, its existence was threatened during World War II. In January 1943, the occupying German authorities ordered the dismantling of the fountain to repurpose the metal for the war effort. The sculptures were removed, leaving only the basin behind.

In the post-war years, the empty basin was filled with four stone fish sculptures created by Józef Makowski. These sculptures remained in place until 2010, when they were removed to make way for the reconstruction of the original fountain.

The Reconstruction Effort

The journey to restore the Fountain The Deluge began in 2004, spearheaded by the Association for the Reconstruction of the Bydgoszcz Fountain The Deluge. Funding for the project came from public donations, the city of Bydgoszcz, regional authorities, and European Union funds.

The first reconstructed element, the bear, was installed in April 2009, followed by the man battling the sea serpent in June 2010. The central figure of the man saving the woman was reinstated in October 2012. The final element, standing at a height of 7 meters, was installed in June 2014. The fully reconstructed fountain was officially unveiled on June 26, 2014, much to the delight of the city's residents and visitors. The total cost of the reconstruction was approximately 2.5 million PLN.

Visiting the Fountain Today

Today, the Fountain The Deluge stands proudly in Kazimierz Wielki Park, a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its people. The fountain is not only a striking piece of art but also a poignant reminder of the stories and struggles of the past. Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings of the park while taking in the intricate details of the sculptures and reflecting on the powerful narrative they convey.

The Fountain The Deluge is more than just a fountain; it is a symbol of Bydgoszcz's history, artistry, and enduring spirit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to relax, this remarkable fountain is a must-see attraction that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.