Fontaine Roesselmann, Colmar

Attraction, Fountain and Monument in Colmar

Fontaine Roesselmann
Fontaine Roesselmann
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Kent Wang

Fontaine Roesselmann is a striking historic fountain-monument on Place des Six Montagnes Noires, right in the heart of Colmar's Old Town. Topped by a bronze figure and surrounded by sculptural details, it's one of those landmarks you'll likely pass naturally while wandering between Colmar's postcard streets, canals, and half-timbered houses.

It works especially well as a quick stop on a self-guided walking tour: pair it with a loop through La Petite Venise, the Koïfhus (Old Customs House), and the Cathedral area, then pause here for photos and a moment of context. In winter, the square can also feel like part of the festive circuit when nearby Christmas market activity spills into the surrounding lanes.

History and Significance of the Fontaine Roesselmann

Fontaine Roesselmann was erected in 1888 and is closely tied to Colmar's civic identity. The monument honors Jean Roesselmann, remembered as a local hero who died defending the city and its communal liberties during a 13th-century conflict involving the Bishop of Strasbourg.

The fountain is also significant because it's associated with Auguste Bartholdi, Colmar's most famous sculptor (best known internationally for the Statue of Liberty). Seeing this work in his hometown adds a satisfying layer to a Colmar visit, especially if you're also planning to stop by the nearby Bartholdi Museum.

Beyond the individual story, the fountain reflects a broader 19th-century trend: cities commemorating local history through public monuments that blend art, symbolism, and everyday urban life. Here, that means a piece you don’t need a ticket for, set right where Colmar’s streets naturally converge.

Things to See and Do in the Fontaine Roesselmann

Start by looking up: the statue atop the fountain is the focal point, and the surrounding sculptural elements reward a slower look than most people give them on a first pass. Walk a full circle around the base to catch different angles and details, then step back toward the edges of the square for a more balanced photo composition.

Because it sits on a lively Old Town square, the experience is as much about atmosphere as it is about the monument itself. Use it as a waypoint: it's a convenient “reset point” on a walking route between the Grand Rue shopping stretch and the more canal-lined scenery closer to La Petite Venise.

If you’re visiting during the Christmas season, this area can become part of the festive buzz, with crowds, lights, and family-friendly attractions nearby. Outside peak periods, it’s calmer and better for photography, especially early in the day.

How to Get to the Fontaine Roesselmann

The nearest major airports are EuroAirport Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg, Strasbourg Airport, and Zurich Airport, with onward connections to Colmar by train or car. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Colmar on Booking.com.

Colmar is well connected by rail, and arriving at Gare de Colmar makes this an easy first Old Town walk; from the station, it's typically around 15–20 minutes on foot depending on your route through the center. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

If you're driving, aim for central Colmar parking (public garages and signed lots around the Old Town), then continue on foot into the pedestrian-friendly core to reach Place des Six Montagnes Noires. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Fontaine Roesselmann

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning for the quietest photos, or late afternoon when the Old Town light is warmer. In December, come early to avoid peak Christmas-market crowds.
  • How long to spend: 10–20 minutes is enough for a full look and photos, or longer if you’re using the square as a café stop on your walking loop.
  • Accessibility: The square is generally flat and easy to reach on foot, but Old Town streets can have uneven paving; wheels may move more slowly.
  • Facilities: No on-site facilities, but you'll find cafés, restaurants, and public amenities within a short walk in central Colmar.

Where to Stay Close to the Fontaine Roesselmann

Base yourself in central Colmar’s Old Town for the easiest, most enjoyable walking access to the fountain and the city’s main sights.

Hôtel Le Maréchal Chosen for its classic Colmar atmosphere near the canals, making it ideal for early-morning walks before day-trippers arrive.

Hôtel Saint-Martin A strong pick for being right in the historic core, perfect if you want to step outside and immediately be on the main Old Town walking routes.

James Boutique Hôtel Included for a more contemporary boutique feel while still staying close enough to walk everywhere without relying on taxis.

Hôtel Turenne A practical, comfortable option on the edge of the center, useful if you’re arriving by car and want simpler access in and out.

La Maison des Têtes A memorable splurge stay in a landmark building, great if you want your hotel to feel like part of the Colmar sightseeing itself.

Is the Fontaine Roesselmann Worth Visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting because it's a beautiful, zero-effort landmark that fits naturally into any Colmar Old Town walk. You get public art, local history, and a photogenic square in one quick stop, and it pairs especially well with a Bartholdi-themed mini-itinerary.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and not particularly interested in monuments, you can skip making a special trip and simply enjoy it if it falls on your route. It’s best appreciated as part of the wider Old Town experience rather than as a standalone destination.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (301)

Travelers rate Fontaine Roesselmann very highly overall, describing it as a beautiful, centrally located fountain and square that's easy to include on an Old Town walk. Common highlights include the impressive statue and sculptural details, the photogenic setting, and the extra charm during the Christmas season when nearby market activity and family-friendly attractions make the area feel especially lively. A recurring downside is that it can get crowded at peak times (notably around Christmas), and for some visitors it's a quick look rather than a destination you'd plan a full outing around.

Enjoy life
a month ago
"Beautiful fountain and square where you can enjoy great Christmas market. This statue by Auguste Bartholdi (1888) depicts Jean Roesselma , who losthis life in 1262 while victoriously defending Colmar and its communal liberties against the troops and ambitions of the Bishop of Strasbourg. The man considered Colmar's first hero bears the likeness of Hercule de Peyerimhoff, mayor of Colmar from 1855 to 1877, who was dismissed for refusing to submit to German authorities. Removed by the Germans in 1943, the bronze statue was restored and reinstalled in 1945 on a white stone monument adorned with four fish serving as spouts...."
Sumol
2 years ago
"The place turns to be lovely Christmas market and outdoor carousel for children during Christmas time. This area becomes so crowded and lovelycharming place to visit for tourist. You can talk 15-20 minutes walk from Colmar train station...."
BradinHK
a year ago
"I liked seeing this fountain monument at Place des 6 Montagnes Noires. It pays honour to Colmar's first hero Jean Roesselma who defended the cityagainst the troops of the Bishop of Strasbourg during the 13th-century. It seems the bronze statue was the work of Auguste Bartholdi and was erected in 1888. Bartholdi depicted Roesselma in the ma er of Hercule de Peyerimhff, city mayor (1855-77) who was relieved of his duties after refusing to submit to German authorities at that time. The statue stands upon a white marble pedestal with bronze fish from which water spouts from their mouths over a base held up by thick columns and into a small ground level basin. It is a nice fountain monument that adds to the ambience of the small public square here. During our December visit, the base of the fountain was covered up and protected while the a ual Christmas Market was ongoing. However, the statue itself easy to spot and view during the festivities...."

For Different Travelers

Fontaine Roesselmann is a flexible stop: quick for fast-paced itineraries, but also a pleasant “slow travel” pause between museums, markets, and canal-side strolls. Because it's outdoors and central, it's easy to fit into almost any plan.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the “treasure hunt” aspect of monuments: spotting sculptural details, fish or water elements, and choosing the best angle for a family photo. In the Christmas season, the surrounding area can feel especially lively and entertaining for children.

Keep expectations simple: this is a short stop rather than an activity venue. Pair it with a carousel, a sweet treat nearby, or a canal walk so the day has a good rhythm for younger travelers.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the fountain works as a charming waypoint on a hand-in-hand Old Town stroll. It’s close to scenic streets and canal areas, so it’s easy to turn a quick look into a longer, more romantic wander.

Visit early or later in the evening to avoid crowds and get a more intimate feel. It also makes a nice “meet here” spot before dinner in the center.

Budget Travelers

This is an easy win for budget travelers: it's free, central, and adds a meaningful slice of local history without needing a ticket. It also helps structure a self-guided walking tour so you can see a lot of Colmar efficiently.

Bring snacks or pick up something simple from a bakery, then use the square as a pause point while you navigate between the Old Town highlights on foot.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate the civic story behind Jean Roesselmann and how 19th-century Colmar chose to commemorate medieval identity in public space. It's a compact example of how monuments can reflect both the era they depict and the era that built them.

To deepen the context, connect this stop with other Bartholdi-related sights in Colmar and look for interpretive plaques nearby. It's a small site, but it can anchor a surprisingly rich historical thread.

FAQs for Visiting Fontaine Roesselmann

Getting There

Yes, it’s typically about a 15–20 minute walk depending on your route through the center. The walk is straightforward and mostly flat through the Old Town.
Use Place des Six Montagnes Noires, Colmar. From there, the fountain is right on the square.
Yes, it fits naturally between Grand Rue, the Cathedral area, and routes toward La Petite Venise. It’s a convenient mid-walk landmark.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public outdoor monument on an open square. You can visit freely at any time.
Many Old Town walking tours pass through nearby streets and may include it as a quick stop. If it matters to you, confirm the route with your guide.
No, the fountain itself is not inside a paid attraction. Any costs would be for nearby museums or activities you choose to add.

Visiting Experience

It can be busy in peak summer and especially during the Christmas market season. For a calmer experience, go early in the day.
Walk around the base to notice the sculptural details and how the monument is composed from different angles. Stepping back across the square also helps you see it in context.
Yes, evening can be atmospheric in the Old Town, and the square often feels more relaxed after daytime crowds. Lighting varies by season and nearby street illumination.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Combine it with a loop through Grand Rue, the Cathedral area, and La Petite Venise. Add a museum stop (like Bartholdi-related sights) if you want more depth.
Yes, it’s one of the most relevant outdoor Bartholdi-linked sights in Colmar. Pair it with other Bartholdi points of interest for a cohesive theme.
You don’t have to, but knowing the Jean Roesselmann story makes the monument more meaningful. Even a quick read of the plaque (if present) can add context.

Photography

Try a straight-on shot from the edge of the square for symmetry, then a closer angle that captures the statue and sculptural details. Early morning is best for fewer people.
Yes, and the festive atmosphere can add charm, but expect crowds. Go earlier in the day for cleaner compositions.
Visit at opening-of-day hours, or wait for brief gaps between groups. Framing upward toward the statue can also reduce street-level clutter.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes, but the Old Town can have uneven paving and narrow sections. Allow extra time and choose smoother routes where possible.
Not typically on the square itself. Use nearby cafés, restaurants, or public facilities in central Colmar.
Yes, you can usually find nearby café seating or spots to pause in the surrounding streets and squares. Availability depends on season and crowd levels.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the Old Town center around the square has plenty of options within a few minutes’ walk. It’s easy to turn this stop into a coffee break.
Yes, it’s a natural pause point between major Old Town sights. Plan a short break here before continuing toward the canals.
Look for bakeries and small takeaway spots in the central streets around Grand Rue. They’re ideal for a budget-friendly break.

Safety & Timing

Central Colmar is generally calm, especially around the main tourist areas. As anywhere, keep an eye on belongings in crowded periods.
Late winter (outside holiday weeks) and shoulder-season weekdays tend to be quieter. You’ll get a more relaxed Old Town feel.
For this stop alone, 10–20 minutes is plenty. If you’re combining it with nearby streets, canals, and a museum, plan a few hours.

Nearby Attractions to the Fontaine Roesselmann

  • La Petite Venise: Colmar’s most photogenic canal-side quarter, perfect for a short scenic stroll.
  • Musée Bartholdi: A compact museum dedicated to Colmar’s famous sculptor, ideal for adding context to the fountain.
  • Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane): The Old Customs House, a historic landmark often included on Old Town walking routes.
  • Collégiale Saint-Martin: Colmar’s main church, notable for its architecture and central location.
  • Marché Couvert de Colmar: A covered market where you can browse local produce and grab an easy snack.

The Fontaine Roesselmann appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Colmar!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Pl. des 6 Montagnes Noires, 68000 Colmar, France
Colmar: 1 km
Telephone: +33 3 89 20 68 92

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs