Mindebranden is one of two and the oldest fountain in Greenland (9 photos)

It is logical that, given the climate, interest in these structures in Greenland is not particularly great.





And, indeed, when the construction of the Mindebranden (Memorial Fountain) was completed in 1932, it became the only one on the entire island.



Construction of the bronze structure, the base of which is carved from the characteristic and easily visually recognizable Igaliku sandstone, began in 1927. The theme of the structure is endemic to Greenland.





Several charming but stern whales, splashing fountains of water, are installed on top of a lantern-like base. This is a reference to the local whaling industry.



In the fjords surrounding the city, you can most likely spot living prototypes of the fountain. Several neat spouts surround the basin, sending thin streams of water to the center.



An exhibit at the local exhibition "Stone and Man"

Mindebranden is hard to miss, as it is located right in the middle of a tiny square in the center of Qaqortoq (formerly known as Julianehab).



Locals and holidaymakers alike like to gather here (high season only, the fountain is off in winter) to dine at picnic tables.



The fountain shares space with the Qaqortoq Museum, a former blacksmith shop that now features both contemporary art and Greenlandic crafts.



The second of Greenland's two fountains is located further north, at Sisimiut.