Theater Square, Klaipeda

The Theatre Square stands as the vibrant heart of the city, serving as a popular gathering spot for residents and visitors alike. The history of Theatre Square is intertwined with the evolution of marketplaces in Klaipėda. In 1819, the New Market was established, occupying the square after part of the castle's moats were flooded. Originally, the area housed butchers' huts. Subsequently, in 1860, a market hall was constructed on the outskirts of the New Market, featuring a fish market adjacent to the castle moats. Fishermen would bring their catch directly from the lagoon, creating a lively marketplace with colorful boat masts and weathervanes.

As market dynamics shifted, Theatre Square emerged as a market square in the first half of the 19th century. It, along with Market Street and the New Market, formed a bustling marketplace stretching from St John’s Church to the castle. During the market season, the area was teeming with activity, featuring carts, huts, amusement rides, and enticing tents.

The current design of Theatre Square came into existence in the 19th century, and its rich history includes stories of plays performed by passing actors as early as the 17th century. The main attractions on the square are the city theater and the Simon-Dach-Fountain. Constructed in 1912 it is dedicated to Klaipėda-born Professor Simon Dach. At the top of the fountain stands the monument to Little Anne of Tharau, a character immortalized in Dach's famous folk song "Ännchen von Tharau."

The romantic ballad "Ännchen von Tharau" is not confined to Germany alone; its melodious strains resonate in Switzerland and Austria as well. Today, it holds a cherished place among the folk songs of Germany and continues to echo through the bells of the Munich town hall, preserving its timeless melody.