Top of the World
Standing proudly at the center of Place de l’Ancienne Douane, the Fontaine Schwendi is more than just a picturesque fountain — it is a sculptural tribute to one of Alsace’s most fascinating historical figures: Lazarus von Schwendi, a 16th-century general, diplomat, and viticulturist.
The fountain was designed in 1898 by Auguste Bartholdi, the renowned Colmar-born sculptor who also created the Statue of Liberty. It honors Schwendi not only as a military commander who fought alongside Emperor Charles V, but also — in local legend — as the man who introduced the Tokay grape (a variety of Pinot Gris) to the Alsace region after campaigns in Hungary.
In the bronze statue, Schwendi is depicted heroically, sword in one hand and a vine branch in the other — a symbolic gesture celebrating Alsace’s deep viticultural traditions. This branch has fueled the romantic myth that he brought the grape to the region, though historians now debate the tale’s accuracy. Still, for locals, it remains a proud cultural connection between Colmar and its rich winemaking heritage.
Originally, the statue faced the old customs house (l’Ancienne Douane), emphasizing its civic and trade history. The entire square, with its half-timbered facades and historical merchant buildings, evokes the bustling life of Colmar in the late Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Did you know? During World War II, like many bronze statues in France, the sculpture was removed by the occupying forces to be melted down for ammunition. Fortunately, it was saved and reinstalled after the war — a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving its artistic legacy.
Photography tip: Visit just after sunrise or in the golden hour of the afternoon, when the light casts dramatic shadows on the fountain’s surface and the surrounding buildings glow in soft amber tones. The blend of architecture, art, and legend makes this a must-capture spot for both amateur and professional photographers.
