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The Fischmarkt
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Today, the only trace of the Medieval Fischmarkt between Schifflände and the Marktplatz is the imposing Late-Gothic fountain. This was created at the end of the 14th century by a master stonemason drawn from the famous family of master builders and masons, Parler.
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The large fountain has an 11-metre high column at its centre, richly decorated with carvings, some of which are painted and some gilt. The three principal figures are the Virgin Mary with child and sceptre, the Apostle Peter with the key, and John the Evangelist with chalice and book.
The decoration also includes numerous smaller figures of angels. These play musical instruments or hold the Basel coat of arms. More saints are depicted on the baldachin, while at the very top, on the finial, stands an angel clasping a palm leaf. The original, heavily weathered column is on display in the Historical Museum (Historisches Museum). The column at the Fischmarkt is a copy dating from the early 20th century.
Fish played an important role in Basel's cuisine in the Middle Ages, for the River Rhine and its tributaries provided a rich supply. This was highly valued, particularly during Lent. On market days fishermen would place their baskets of "green" (live) fish in the basin of the fountain. This meant they could guarantee the freshness of their wares.
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