In the heart of Old Bern, Switzerland, stands a striking yet unsettling statue that has perplexed onlookers for nearly five centuries. Known as the Kindlifresserbrunnen, or the Fountain of the Eater of Little Children, this sculpture portrays a menacing ogre-like figure adorned in vivid red, green, and yellow attire.
Perched atop a column, the ogre is depicted devouring a baby’s head, while other children appear either in his grasp or tucked away in a bag nearby, all displaying expressions of fear about their impending fate. This towering statue is believed to be part of one of Bern’s oldest fountains, a city renowned for its abundance of public water features.
Crafted in 1546 by Hans Gieng to replace a wooden sculpture, the origins and purpose of the Ogre Fountain remain shrouded in mystery. Various theories speculate on its symbolism, including a cautionary message directed at the Jewish community due to the ogre’s hat resembling traditional Jewish headwear. Others suggest it may represent the mythological figure Cronos, who, in Roman lore, feared his offspring would overthrow him and thus devoured his children.
Some interpretations link the statue to Duke Berchtold’s older brother, who, envious of his sibling’s success, purportedly resorted to consuming the town’s children in a fit of jealousy. Additionally, there are notions connecting the Kindlifresserbrunnen to Krampus, a folklore creature associated with Santa Claus in German-speaking regions, known for disciplining misbehaving children during the Christmas season.
While the true significance of this enigmatic fountain remains elusive, it continues to captivate passersby with its darkly intriguing presence, inviting speculation and contemplation from all who gaze upon it.