Rector De Somerplein Square, Leuven
Situated near the choir of the Sint-Pieterskerk, Rector De Somerplein Squaree occupies the former site of Leuven's Hay Market, which once served as a bustling hub connecting three major streets. However, the area underwent a dramatic transformation in the aftermath of the Great Fire of Leuven in August 1914, when German troops laid waste to the city center. To rejuvenate the devastated space, it was converted into a green zone and eventually developed into Rector De Somerplein in 1925.
Originally named Maarschalk Fochplein after the French Marshal Ferdinand Foch, the square was redesigned in 1975 to coincide with the 550-year anniversary of Leuven University. At its heart stands a water fountain adorned with a bronze statue known as Source of Wisdom, sculpted by J. Claerhout. Affectionately referred to as 'Fonske' by locals, the statue depicts a student engrossed in reading an open book, with a glass continuously pouring water into his open head. While the imagery may seem somewhat macabre, university students humorously interpret the never-ending glass as a beer glass, humorously claiming it as their source of wisdom.
In 2011, the square was renamed Rector De Somerplein in honor of Pieter De Somer, the first rector of the new Dutch-language Catholic University in Leuven. Today, Rector De Somerplein Square serves as a vibrant public space, inviting locals and visitors alike to gather, relax, and admire the iconic Fonske statue while reflecting on the city's rich academic heritage and enduring spirit of resilience.
Originally named Maarschalk Fochplein after the French Marshal Ferdinand Foch, the square was redesigned in 1975 to coincide with the 550-year anniversary of Leuven University. At its heart stands a water fountain adorned with a bronze statue known as Source of Wisdom, sculpted by J. Claerhout. Affectionately referred to as 'Fonske' by locals, the statue depicts a student engrossed in reading an open book, with a glass continuously pouring water into his open head. While the imagery may seem somewhat macabre, university students humorously interpret the never-ending glass as a beer glass, humorously claiming it as their source of wisdom.
In 2011, the square was renamed Rector De Somerplein in honor of Pieter De Somer, the first rector of the new Dutch-language Catholic University in Leuven. Today, Rector De Somerplein Square serves as a vibrant public space, inviting locals and visitors alike to gather, relax, and admire the iconic Fonske statue while reflecting on the city's rich academic heritage and enduring spirit of resilience.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Leuven. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Rector De Somerplein Square on Map
Sight Name: Rector De Somerplein Square
Sight Location: Leuven, Belgium (See walking tours in Leuven)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Leuven, Belgium (See walking tours in Leuven)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Leuven, Belgium
Create Your Own Walk in Leuven
Creating your own self-guided walk in Leuven is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Leuven Introduction Walking Tour
Nestled in the heart of Belgium, the picturesque town of Leuven has no shortage of historic and cultural attractions. Its name is thought to originate from the Old Germanic word "Loven," meaning “to love or praise”, an explanation of which may be found in the Leuven slogan, “Always praise God.”
Leuven's roots date back to 891 when it was first mentioned after a Viking... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Leuven's roots date back to 891 when it was first mentioned after a Viking... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Leuven Monuments and Statues
Leuven, Belgium is a city steeped in history and culture, embellished with an assortment of monuments and statues that mirror its abundant heritage. Ranging from age-old landmarks to contemporary sculptures, each of them narrates a tale and contributes to the city's distinct allure. Whether paying tribute to historical luminaries, commemorating artistic triumphs, or simply enhancing the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles