Ganseliesel Fountain | Gottingen

The Gänseliesel Fountain in Göttingen, Germany, is one of the city's most famous landmarks and a popular symbol of its long-standing traditions. Situated in the heart of the old town, the fountain is closely associated with Göttingen University and is an iconic feature of the city.

History and Origin

Creation of the Fountain: The Gänseliesel Fountain was created in 1901 by the sculptor Gustav Lueger. It was commissioned as part of the urban development of the town square, Marktplatz, to commemorate the history of Göttingen and its agricultural roots. The fountain depicts a young girl with a goose, a reference to the old tradition of girls driving geese in the area, a symbol of everyday life in the town during medieval times.

Symbolism of the Goose: The goose (in German, “Gans”) represents Göttingen’s agricultural heritage and its connection to the rural countryside. In medieval times, geese were commonly raised in the region, and the image of the girl with the goose is a charming representation of the local farming community.

Association with Göttingen University: The Gänseliesel Fountain has become a key cultural symbol for students of the University of Göttingen. It is closely tied to a centuries-old tradition involving university graduates. According to this tradition, after successfully defending their doctoral dissertation, new doctoral graduates are expected to kiss the Gänseliesel statue as a celebratory gesture. This practice has been going on for centuries and has become a beloved custom. In fact, the fountain has been kissed so many times by graduates that it has earned the affectionate title of “the most kissed statue in the world.”

Architectural and Artistic Features

The Statue: The statue of the Gänseliesel itself depicts a young girl holding a goose in her arms. The girl’s expression is cheerful and lively, and the fountain’s naturalistic design captures the innocence and simplicity of rural life in Göttingen. The statue stands on a pedestal with water flowing from the base, where the fountain serves as both a functional water feature and an ornamental sculpture.

Design Details: The Gänseliesel fountain is made of sandstone, and the statue is designed with great attention to detail. The girl’s hair and clothing, as well as the feathers of the goose, are carved with delicate precision. The base of the fountain is also designed with elegant water spouts, contributing to its overall aesthetic appeal.

Location: The fountain is situated in the Marktplatz, Göttingen’s historic central square, making it a prominent feature of the city's landscape. It is surrounded by medieval buildings and the city’s Town Hall (Rathaus), which gives it a picturesque and traditional setting.

The Tradition of the Gänseliesel

Kissing the Statue: One of the most well-known aspects of the Gänseliesel Fountain is the tradition involving doctoral graduates from Göttingen University. After successfully defending their dissertations, new PhDs are expected to climb onto the pedestal of the fountain and kiss the statue of the Gänseliesel. This act is a rite of passage and a symbol of academic success. The tradition is said to have originated in the 18th century, and it has continued as a cherished custom over the centuries.

Why the Gänseliesel?: The tradition of kissing the Gänseliesel has various theories behind it. One common belief is that it signifies the end of the academic journey and a return to the community after years of intense study. The kissing of the statue also symbolizes humility and a moment of celebration, as the new doctoral graduate is welcomed by the town and its traditions.

The Gänseliesel’s Protection: The statue is highly revered, and it has been subject to some protective measures due to its significance. As a result, police guards have occasionally been posted at the fountain to ensure that the tradition remains respectful and that the statue is not damaged by overzealous students. Nevertheless, it remains a joyful and well-loved tradition in Göttingen.

The Gänseliesel Today

A Popular Landmark: The Gänseliesel Fountain is not only a popular site for students and graduates but also a key attraction for tourists visiting Göttingen. The fountain, with its charming statue and lively atmosphere, draws both visitors and locals to the Marktplatz, where it serves as a backdrop to the bustling activity of the square.

Cultural and Social Hub: Over the years, the fountain has become more than just a statue—it has transformed into a cultural symbol of Göttingen University and the city itself. It represents the connection between the academic community and the town, and it is a frequent site for both celebrations and festivities in Göttingen. The tradition of kissing the Gänseliesel is still as strong as ever, with new doctoral graduates continuing to partake in the ritual.

Conclusion

The Gänseliesel Fountain is one of Göttingen’s most beloved landmarks, combining historical significance, local tradition, and artistic beauty. As a symbol of the city’s academic life and agricultural heritage, it remains a central part of Göttingen’s identity. Its role in the traditions of Göttingen University, particularly the unique practice of kissing the statue after earning a doctoral degree, adds an extra layer of cultural importance. Whether you’re a graduate marking the end of your academic journey or a visitor exploring the historic center of Göttingen, the Gänseliesel Fountain offers a memorable and enduring connection to the city’s past and present.