The Tinguely Fountain, located in Basel’s Theaterplatz, is an iconic kinetic water sculpture created by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely in 1977. Comprising whimsical, moving mechanical structures powered by water, the fountain reflects Tinguely’s playful artistic style and adds a dynamic charm to the square. Situated near Basel’s city center, it is a popular spot for visitors to admire the blend of art and movement. The fountain operates year-round, though it freezes into a striking ice sculpture in winter.
Jean Tiguely was a Swiss artist. Back in 1977, he created a unqiue fountain. Laying the base with asphalt, he created a lot of strange looking machines that would spew out water. All of these machines/figures are made using iron. The fountain was built in place of the stage of an old theatre company, so the figures or machines were made to behave like actors or dancers, going in perfect co-ordination with each other.æ