Next to the village of Popperode, which became deserted in the 15th century and whose inhabitants moved to the nearby town, the Popperode spring was probably created by a sinkhole in 1199. The water-rich stream from the spring powered mills, filled fish ponds and supplied the old town with industrial water. In Mühlhausen town center, it bears the difficult-to-interpret name Schwemmnotte/Swelmena. Grateful for the vital water, the people of Mühlhausen visit the spring and the schoolchildren celebrate the fountain festival with an offering of flowers for the spring, songs and dances. Mayor Gregor Fleischhauer had the fountain house built in 1614 to embellish it and had the fountain enclosed in a semi-circular, stepped surround based on the model of ancient amphitheaters. Perhaps he wanted to demonstrate his commitment to the city after years of conflict with the council.

The massive first floor of the fountain house opens up as an arcade with three arcades like a stage to the spring. The half-timbered upper storey with St. Andrew's crosses is crowned by corner turrets, a dwarf gable and a ridge turret. A balcony offers the opportunity to address the congregation. As one of the most beautiful springs in Thuringia, it is the pride of the people of Mühlhausen, who love to take their guests to it.

A stop on the former Mühlhausen streetcar was set up for the popular excursion destination and a restaurant there. The restaurant had to close in 1963 due to a lack of sewerage in the drinking water protection area.

The Brunnenhaus is used for wedding ceremonies. It is not possible to visit the interior.