Alter Market & Rathaus, A bustling hub of history, culture, and gastronomy

Rathausplatz 2, D 50667 Cologne

A lively place

3.8

Introduction

The square located southeast of Cologne Cathedral is still the bustling center of the city. It has been a lively marketplace since ancient Roman times. Many Renaissance-era buildings are preserved here, and it is still home to bars, restaurants, and commercial streets. In the center of the square, you can find the statue of Jan von Werth, a legendary figure who was once a poor farmer and later became a cavalry general. Surrounding his statue are relief sculptures depicting scenes from his legendary military exploits. On the western side of the square is the tower of the City Hall, built in the 14th century with a complex structure. It was heavily damaged during World War II, but the historic City Hall is still undergoing partial reconstruction and rejuvenation in a modern style. The tower reaches a height of 61 meters and is adorned with 124 statues, representing various figures ranging from Jesus and the disciples to ancient Roman generals, and even modern politicians and musicians. The porch of the City Hall was built in the mid-Renaissance period, and behind it is the oldest preserved part of the building - the Hanseatic Hall (1360), which houses many wooden sculptures from the 14th and 15th centuries and is of great artistic value.