In front of the main building of the Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) there is a certain perplexity on this Monday morning. “It definitely takes some getting used to,” said a small group of young students. They look at the two double-shell fountains at Zwilling-Scholl Platz with skepticism. The fountains there sparkle bright green in the sun. “Reminds me of the Hunger Games. Imposing and a little embarrassing,” adds a young woman.
A few steps further the verdict is completely different. A collection of people in suits look proudly at the fountains. To mark the start of the water features, Science Minister Markus Blume (CSU) and LMU President Bernd Huber gathered in front of one of the fountains. The main reason for the celebration is the recently completed restoration.
After a year of covering, passers-by as well as students and employees of the university can once again take a look at the listed water dispensers without being disturbed. Built in 1842 and 1844 under King Ludwig I, the large fountains are considered a landmark of the LMU and are a popular photo motif for graduates.
The focus of the work was actually the inner workings of the fountains, says Matthias Fahrmeir, who was involved in the project as head of the LMU’s Real Estate and Technology Department. “More water flowed inwards than outwards,” says Fahrmeir about the condition before the renovation; the pipes urgently needed to be sealed.
The striking color is actually the same as before – just not yet corroded due to the weather. Analyzes by the Bavarian State Office for Monument Preservation revealed 15 different layers of paint, but ultimately they decided on the paint from the post-war period. Over time, the fresh green will turn back into a bronze patina tone.
Progress has also been made in terms of sustainability. “Power-saving LEDs that can be switched off are used for the lighting,” he reports. In addition, a well has a positive impact on the humidity in the area, according to the department head.
Sina and Eva, on the other hand, doubt any positive added value. “At the university we are dealing with water shortages, and drinking water is being shot into the air outside the door,” complain the students. In fact, the contents of the fountains come from pipes in the main building – although you should avoid quenching your thirst there.
The two students are also critical of the costs of two million euros, which were mainly borne by the Free State: “The money should be put into education, we would benefit more from that.” At least the color was to suit her taste. “It’s still new, it’s definitely going to get better,” Eva says forgivingly.
In addition to LMU President Huber and Science Minister Blume, General Conservator Mathias Pfeil and Thomas Jenkel from the State Building Authority have now gathered in front of one of the fountains. The four of them want to press the big button together that will start the water features.
However, the big moment is delayed by a handful of young demonstrators. The small group had previously positioned themselves with Palestinian scarves wrapped around their heads. However, there is no confrontation – the request to move away is quickly complied with. The group will not then respond to questions from the SZ.
After a bold push of the button, it gushes out of both double-bowl fountains. LMU President Bernd Huber is satisfied. “The majority of students and researchers pass by here every day,” he says, adding that the place can finally be seen again. But you probably won’t find him with a beer or in swimming trunks.