Fountain of Sabrina

History

The Fountain of Sabrina was created by sculptor Gerald Laing and unveiled in 1980. It stands in Broad Quay, Bristol, near the city centre. The sculpture depicts Sabrina, the mythological goddess of the River Severn, emerging from the water.

The legend of Sabrina originates from Geoffrey of Monmouth's Historia Regum Britanniae (c. 1136), which tells of a princess named Hafren (Latinised as Sabrina) who was drowned in the river by her stepmother. The river was subsequently named after her.

The Sculpture

The bronze figure stands approximately 2.4 metres tall on a circular stone plinth surrounded by a shallow pool. Water cascades around the base of the sculpture. The fountain was commissioned by Bristol City Council as part of the Broad Quay redevelopment.

Visiting

The fountain is freely accessible in Broad Quay, a pedestrianised area in Bristol city centre. It is visible at all times and requires no admission fee. The surrounding area includes shops, restaurants, and access to Bristol Harbourside.

Conservation

The fountain was granted Grade II listed status by Historic England, recognising its architectural and historic interest. It has undergone periodic restoration to maintain the bronze patina and water features.