The figure of Justice
Justice with her scales and sword — here without a blindfold, unlike the usual figures.
dontworry — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Dietmar Rabich — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Dietmar Rabich — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Dietmar Rabich — CC BY-SA 4.0
The Fountain of Justice stands at the centre of Römerberg in front of the Römer, topped by a figure of Justice holding scales and a sword. The present fountain is an 1887 copy; the original dates from the sixteenth century. The best detail in its history is that it ran with red and white wine instead of water on the coronation days of Holy Roman Emperors, so the townspeople could drink in celebration. That happened nine times between 1562 and 1792. Today it runs ordinary water, but it still stands at the heart of Frankfurt's most famous square.
Justice with her scales and sword — here without a blindfold, unlike the usual figures.
The fountain ran with wine on coronation days so the townspeople could drink in celebration.
At the centre of Römerberg between the Römer and the timber houses — the middle of the picture.
Römerberg, 60311 Frankfurt
RömerbergThe Römerberg is the Frankfurt picture you know before you arrive: the square of1 minute walk4.7
Old St Nicholas ChurchThe small red-roofed church on the south side of the Roemerberg is older than th1 minute walk4.7
RömerThe Römer has been Frankfurt's city hall since 1405, and its three stepped gable1 minute walk4.6
Frankfurter KunstvereinThe Frankfurter Kunstverein is a contemporary art institution in the Steinernes 1 minute walk4.4
Historical Museum FrankfurtThe Historical Museum Frankfurt tells the city's story from the Middle Ages to t1 minute walk4.2Modern figures show Justice blindfolded as a symbol of impartiality. This one follows an older tradition in which her face is uncovered. It is a detail you notice if you look closely.
No. The original dates from the sixteenth century; what stands today is an 1887 copy. The whole square around it was rebuilt after wartime destruction, so the site is historic while the buildings and fountain are reproductions.
Five to ten minutes. It is a stop within Römerberg — take it in as part of your visit to the square, the Römer and the timber houses.