In the heart of Old Bern, Switzerland, stands a striking yet eerie statue that has puzzled onlookers for nearly five centuries. Known as the Kindlifresserbrunnen, or the Fountain of the Eater of Little Children, this sculpture features a menacing ogre perched atop a column, adorned in vibrant red, green, and yellow attire.
The ogre is depicted devouring a naked baby’s head while other cherubic youngsters appear either in his grasp or within a bag by his side, all displaying expressions of fear regarding their impending fate. This towering statue is believed to be part of one of Bern’s oldest fountains, a city renowned for its numerous public water features scattered throughout its streets.
Crafted by Hans Gieng in 1546 to replace a wooden sculpture, the origins of the Ogre Fountain remain shrouded in mystery. Speculations abound regarding its symbolism, with one theory suggesting it served as a cautionary message to the Jewish community due to the ogre’s hat resembling traditional Jewish headwear. Another interpretation links the statue to the myth of Cronos, a Greek deity who devoured his offspring out of fear of being overthrown.
Some locals speculate that the figure represents the older brother of Bern’s founder, Duke Berchtold, who, in a fit of jealousy, allegedly consumed the town’s children—a tale not substantiated in historical records. Additionally, there is speculation that the statue may embody Krampus, a mythical being associated with Santa Claus who punishes misbehaving children during the Christmas season.
The true significance of this enigmatic fountain may forever elude us, yet it continues to captivate passersby, inviting them to gaze up at its hauntingly captivating presence.