Berlin celebrates: Monument-protected fountain gushes again after 25 years!

Berlin celebrates: Monument-protected fountain gushes again after 25 years!

After decades of silence, it is finally gushing again: Ortraud Lerch's glass mosaic fountain, which had previously been out of operation for 25 years, was ceremonially put back into operation today in Berlin's city center. On September 14, 2025, Berlin's Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) and the state curator Christoph Rauhut pressed the start button for the water fountains.

This beautiful fountain, built in 1964 on the site of the former GDR State Council building, has an exciting past. Today the area is home to the European School of Management and Technology (ESMT), but the fountain is a reminder of another time when art and architecture served the state. The restoration was made possible with the help of the State Monuments Office, privately financed support and funds from the Minister of State for Culture, which underlines the value of the monument, which was illustrated by Ortraud Lerch from the 1960s until the reunification. This artist designed numerous mosaics for public buildings and is considered an important representative of art in the GDR.

Rebirth of an artistic icon

The inauguration of the fountain not only took place in the presence of political dignitaries, but was also the start of a broader discussion about the role of art and culture in divided Germany. The fountain, which is anchored in the GDR art scene, reflects history. From the beginnings of GDR art, which was heavily influenced by the state leadership under Walter Ulbricht, to the challenges artists faced in a systemic art market, the mosaic fountain project is part of this complex narrative.

In the first post-war years, cultural policy was in the hands of the Communist Party, and numerous organizations were founded to promote art and artists in the spirit of socialism. Despite the restrictive guidelines, there were repeated attempts to preserve creative freedom. Lerch's far-reaching work in this context proves that impressive art was created even under difficult political conditions.

An expression of hope

With its recommissioning, the fountain also brings a message of hope for the culture. Returning to such historical works of art not only promotes collective memory, but also shows the importance of honoring the artistic achievements of the past. Especially in today's world, when cultural identities and heritage are often at stake, the revival of such symbols is of great importance.

As we gaze at the bubbling water fountains, the fountain reminds us that art is more than just aesthetic design. It is deeply rooted in our history and reflects both social and political trends. RBB24 reports that this inauguration brings a piece of Berlin's history back into consciousness and that artists like Lerch still need a platform to shine.

Whatever the future holds, today is a good day for the revival of culture in Berlin and the appreciation of an artist who was ahead of her time. It is to be hoped that more such initiatives will follow to promote deeper connections between art, history and the people who experience them.

Especially in this day and age, when the limits of expression are being tested many times, it is important to hear the voices of the past and recognize their contribution to shaping our culture. T Online emphasizes that this fountain is a valuable connection not only to GDR art, but also to today's cultural landscape. May the bubbling of the fountain inspire many!

And who knows, perhaps this fountain will continue to spark conversations about art and its role in society in the years to come. The story has a lot to tell and we should listen to it carefully. The Federal Agency for Civic Education reminds us that art is not only a reflection of time, but also a force that can bring about change.