Germany> Sights & Attractions

Bremen Marktplatz

A charming market square in Bremen, Northern Germany, the Marktplatz is surrounded by monuments and historical buildings, spanning a full 8000 years. Upon arriving there one feels like they have stepped into a universe of ages past, unaltered by time. The Marktplatz is silent during the evenings, and one is submerged in its tranquil and dignified atmosphere. During the day, it is vibrant and lively, an ocean of joy and excitement in the heart of a monumental city with a rich and diverse history.

The main attractions and points of interest surrounding the square are the Church of St. John, St. Peter's Cathedral, Gothic-style Rathaus (Town Hall), the enchanting statue of the Bremer Stadtmusikanten or Town Musicians, and finally, the statue of Roland, rising up from the market square to the skies.

The Church of St. John is a fine representation of 1300s Gothic architecture. Other interesting architectural traditions are exhibited by the structures located along nearby Bottcherstrasse - houses dating back to the 1400s in perfect condition, studios, art galleries, and cultural venues.

The Town Hall of Bremen dates back to 1405. In 1609 its exterior was renovated with architectural themes of the Renaissance period, now exhibiting a remarkable façade. The Merchant Hall or Schuetting, inaugurated in 1538 and featuring Flemish influence, the Parliament and St. Peter's Cathedral are among the other magnificent structures ringing the square. The latter dates back to 1042, making it the oldest building in the MarktPlatz.

The statue of Roland has graced the market square for almost six centuries. Completed in 1404, it embodies Bremen's status as a free city, as well as the independent spirit of its citizens. Bremen became a bishopric under the rule of Charlemagne himself in 787. Approximately two centuries later it received market privileges from the emperor, which has given this location enviable status as a trade centre since ancient history. Today its ports on the Weser River are main sites of naval trade, on which Bremen's economy is largely based. Space technology and research are also important economic factors in this city.

The high point in the history of the city was the creation of Roland, testifying to its eternal quest for independence. With the fall of the German Empire in 1806, Bremen had the honourable status of hanseatic city conferred upon it, and became a federal state under the new empire 65 years later. It retained its status throughout WWI, but lost independence during Hitler's reign. In 1947 its privileges were restored.

Other important sites along the square include the oldest church in Bremen, Our Lady, built in the 1200s. It features a fascinating collection of frescos from the 1300s. The fascinating Cathedral St. Petri, located just off the square, features a variety of historical sculptures, among them those of Peter, Paul and Charlemagne. Tourists wishing to discover some refreshing modernity are in for a treat, especially if they like wine. The Town Hall cellar serves 700 types of German vintage wines.

Bremen's free spirit is translated most effectively by the Grimm Brothers' tale of the Bremen Town Musicians. A cat, dog, donkey and rooster decide to go to Bremen to escape from their cruel owners. They hope to live in freedom in this city, famous for its independent spirit. They don't actually make it to Bremen, but on the way there they come upon a lighted house in the forest. The animals stand on top of each other to see what is going on inside. In the house there are four thieves enjoying a feast. The animals decide to sing for them in the hope of getting paid, but when they start the robbers become scared and flee. The animals go in the house to eat and rest. Later that night one of the thieves comes back, and the animals attack him in the dark. He tells his fellows that he was attacked by monsters, and the men run away forever. The animals remain at the house for the rest of their lives - happy, satisfied, and most importantly, free.

It is easy to understand that the animals represent the repressed social classes, yearning for freedom. They did not get to Bremen, but they were on the way there. A lovely bronze statue of the animals, standing on top of each other can also be found at the square. Perhaps this is the most important attraction onsite. This statue is a living monument, testifying to Bremen's historic quest for independence. Locals say that if someone holds the hoofs of the donkey for a second and makes a wish, it will come true.