Fountain of Caritas Well
Fountain installed on Gammeltorv Square
Description:
The oldest fountain in Copenhagen is located in the Old Square and bears the poetic name "Fountain of Mercy". It was built at the behest of King Christian IV as a gift to the inhabitants of the city in 1608. The fountain changed its location several times as a result of the modernization of the remaining ancient fountains of the time of King Frederick II, until it took its current central place in Gammeltorv Square.
The fountain is a voluminous bowl installed on top of the column. In the center of the bowl is a gilded sculpture of the goddess of mercy and generosity Caritas. Two children are depicted next to the goddess, since in Latin "caritas" means merciful, sacrificial love. The fountain jets are made quite unusual. In addition to goldfish and the traditional peeing boy, the two jets emanate directly from the goddess’ chest, symbolizing maternal generosity and charity.
According to ancient tradition, several times a year, during royal birthdays and during Constitution Day, the streams of the fountain are decorated with several gilded apples that jump on the streams of the fountain.