Jena, 12.05.2026. Prominent visitor in the ice-cold water: TV presenter and comedian Wigald Boning chose the historic Fürstenbrunnen in Jena for his daily open-water activity. It is already his second bathing stop in the Lichtstadt this year.
- Person: Comedian Wigald Boning
- Event: Bath in the Fürstenbrunnen, Jena
- Background: Day 1408 of his daily bathing challenge
- Prehistory: Swimming in the Saale (Jena) in January 2026
An Anniversary in the Cool Water
Jena seems to be a preferred bathing location for the entertainer. For 1408 days now, Wigald Boning has been going for a swim every single day in various natural locations – completely independent of weather conditions or the season. After having already completed an icy jump into the Jenaer Saale in January of this year, he has now returned. This time, his choice fell on the idyllically located but, according to his own statement, “wonderfully cool” Fürstenbrunnen in the Jenaer Wälder.
Background: The Fürstenbrunnen in the Pennickental
The Fürstenbrunnen is a popular hiking destination in the Jenaer Pennickental, at the foot of the Johannisberge. The stone-lined karst spring feeds the Pennickenbach. Historically, the site has a special significance: In the 16th century, the Saxon Elector Johann Friedrich der Großmütige is said to have refreshed himself here while hunting, which gave the spring its noble name.
For swimmers, the spring water is a real challenge: Since the water emerges directly from the limestone massif, it has a constant, sensitively cool temperature of about 8 to 10 degrees Celsius year-round. Even in midsummer, the narrow basin at the Fürstenbrunnen therefore offers extreme refreshment. Normally, the place is used more by brave hikers who cool their arms or feet here according to the Kneipp method.
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Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.