Alter Markt (Old Market), Cologne

The Old Market was once connected to the Hay Market. Today the square bearing its name has several Renaissance buildings, an attractive fountain, and a Christmas Market.

The Old Market square has hosted markets and a residential area since at least 922. The oldest original structure in the square dates to 1580. Many other historic houses and buildings were destroyed during World War II bombing attacks.

The 1371 Cologne Weaver Uprising took place in Old Market and Hay Market. The weavers guild and the city council continuously disagreed, and the conflict turned bloody. The city council had more manpower, however, and the weavers were arrested or forced to leave the city.

The iconic fountain features a statue of Jan von Werth completed in 1884. The legend behind the statue tells of a young girl Griet who rejected Jan, a poor peasant. Griet wanted a wealthier husband. Devastated by her rejection, Jan left to fight in the Thirty Years' War and became a powerful general. He returned to Cologne and saw Griet in the square selling fruits. Griet was filled with regret and exclaimed "Jan, who would have thought it?" to which he replied "Griet, the person who should have done it!" and turns away.

Today, visitors will find traditional German architecture and old monuments dedicated to the city’s founders on and around the square. The imposing old town hall is located on the west side of the square. Visitors can also see a strange sculpture Kallendresser near house number 24's roof. The sculpture depicts someone relieving himself in the gutter. It is thought that the sculpture is a political statement directed towards the city authority.

The Old Market square is a pedestrian-only area surrended by restaurants, bars, and ice-cream shops. The place is full of life well into the night.