The completed public consultation confirmed that a completely new fountain should be created in Krakow in front of St Mary’s Church in the Main Square. Residents emphasised that the new facility should refer to the history of the place and its symbolism. A total of 744 respondents took part in the surveys, including residents of District I Stare Miasto (where the fountain is located), who accounted for 13 per cent of participants.
The fountain in the Main Market Square in Krakow and the expectations of residents
A clear conclusion emerges from the statements of the Cracovians regarding the current form of the Crystal fountain. 76 per cent of those surveyed assessed it negatively, which determined their decision not to renew it and to keep it in its current form. This was also influenced by the cost of the planned renovation and the lack of guarantees that the work would lead to a full restoration of the damaged object. The city announces that the preparation of the concept for the new fountain will take into account the historical references and function of the previous solutions. The plans also include elements that respond to the needs of users and the aesthetics of the Market Square. The project is intended to maintain the former form and introduce solutions that will increase the comfort and attractiveness of such an important and representative place as the space between the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Church.
The resting space and the role of lighting
Respondents overwhelmingly supported the idea of creating seating near the fountain. More than 81 per cent of consultation participants were in favour of adding resting spaces. Some indicated separate benches, while others suggested seating structurally linked to the fountain. The final layout will be refined during further work. The topic of lighting was also of great importance. 73 per cent of people were positive about the possibility of illumination. Both options used on a daily basis and variable variants, adapted to the events held in the Market Square, were indicated. The design is intended to provide for softer light on a daily basis and flexible adjustment of colours and intensity of effects.
Fountain on the Main Square with greenery and symbolism
A significant proportion of residents, 77 per cent, supported the introduction of greenery around the fountain. Half of them suggested creating a green setting around the reservoir. However, the final solutions will be agreed with the conservationist, who will assess the impact of the concept on the archaeological relics hidden under the surface of the Market Square. The surveys also showed a strong interest in Krakow-related themes. 46 per cent of participants would like the new fountain to incorporate elements relating to the symbols of the city. This direction will be developed during the development of the project.
Colours, materials and technical issues
The planned composition is to be given a subdued colour scheme, consistent with the buildings of the Main Square. The choice of materials and colours will be consulted with the conservator of monuments and the municipal services responsible for the protection of the space. The fountain will certainly not receive sound systems that would create additional acoustic effects.
History of the “Crystal” and its predecessor
The ‘Crystal’ fountain with a quadrilateral base and walls in the form of triangles was set up in the Market Square in 2010, on the site of Professor Viktor Zin’s earlier fountain, popularly known as ‘Zin’s Couch’. The granite pools formed a composition present in the square in front of the church from the 1960s until 2005. The relocation of the structure was carried out in connection with the modernisation of the Main Square. After restoration in 2020, Professor Zin’s structure was placed in the Jerzmanowski Park. The newer structure was damaged in 2023 and has remained closed since then. Technical expertise has shown increasing leaks at the joints of the glass elements due to water, dirt and wear and tear on the materials. Interestingly, through the glazed bottom of the “Crystal” fountain, it is possible to look deep into the underground of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow.
The city authorities state that the return of Prof. Zin’s former fountain to the Main Square is not planned. The high costs of maintenance and the extent of the repairs required do not allow it to be put back in its original location.
Source: PAP
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