The equestrian statue
A large monument to the Prussian king on horseback at the centre — the usual meeting point.
Heumarkt is one of Cologne's largest old squares, adjoining the Alter Markt but wider and less crowded with cafés. Its name means "hay market", and it genuinely was a market for hay and fodder from the Middle Ages. At its centre stands a large equestrian statue of Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia. Today the square is open ground used for events: the December Christmas market with an ice rink, and the festivities of Cologne's famous February carnival. It is free and always open.
A large monument to the Prussian king on horseback at the centre — the usual meeting point.
December's market here includes an ice rink, and is among Cologne's largest.
In February the square becomes a carnival stage — Germany's most famous popular festival.
Heumarkt, 50667 Köln
The Alter Markt is smaller and prettier, with its coloured fronts and cafés; Heumarkt is wider and more open, and used for large events. They adjoin, and both are seen in the same walk within minutes.
December without question, with the Christmas market and ice rink. February too if you want to see Cologne's carnival — but be ready for enormous crowds and difficult hotel bookings that week.
Twenty minutes on an ordinary day — it is open space more than a monument. During the market or carnival you might spend hours.
Sign in to write your review of this place.
No reviews yet — be the first.