Group 1 | Station 5
Rad Der Fortuna (The Wheel of Fortuna)
For the ancient Romans, Fortuna was the goddess of good fortune.
The wheel of Fortuna was installed in the northeastern section of the moat in 2001 CE. It was created by the artist, Hans Hoffer.
It symbolises the course and transience of human life.
When in operation, the huge wheel moves slowly. Take time to observe the slow movement of the wheel. You can see the life-sized human sculptures gently descend into the water of the moat and reappear.
Who was Fortuna?
In Ancient Rome, Fortuna was worshipped as the Roman goddess of luck, fate, and prosperity.
She was believed to guide the destinies of individuals and entire communities, bringing either good fortune or sudden misfortune according to her will.
Often shown holding a cornucopia (symbolising abundance) and a rudder or wheel (representing the changing course of fate), Fortuna reminded the Romans that success and happiness were gifts of chance as much as of effort.
Shrines and statues dedicated to her stood throughout the Roman world, where people prayed for her favour and protection.
Image Gallery
Labelled Image
Map: 5
Stations: 5 | 6A | 6B | 7A | 7B | 16 | 17A
Station 5 | “Rad Der Fortuna”
Station 6A | Granary (East Face)
Station 6B | Granary (West Face)
Station 7A | Dominican Church
Station 7B | Dominican Monastery
Station 16 | Municipal Park
Station 17A | Neumarkter Tor (Former Gate)