Bremen, a city in northwestern Germany, is well-known for The Town Musicians of Bremen. Among its most iconic symbols, deeply cherished by its citizens, are the Town Hall and the Roland Statue in Marktplatz, both of which were designated as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites in 2004.
As the name suggests, the Town Hall and Roland Statue are located in the heart of Bremen’s Old Town, at Marktplatz. In this article, we introduce these two UNESCO-listed historical landmarks.
What are the Town Hall and Roland Statue in Bremen’s Marktplatz?
The UNESCO-listed Town Hall symbolizes Bremen’s heritage as a prosperous Hanseatic city. The Old Town Hall was originally constructed between 1405 and 1409. Between 1595 and 1612, architect Lüder von Bentheim renovated it, adding a new Weser Renaissance-style façade.
Between 1909 and 1913, architect Gabriel von Seidl further extended the building with Neo-Renaissance additions at the rear. The balcony features statues of Charlemagne and the seven Prince-electors. The Town Hall, built in the distinctive architectural style of Northern Germany, represents Bremen’s history and remains a source of pride for its citizens even after its World Heritage designation.
Another UNESCO-listed landmark is the Roland Statue, a symbol of Bremen’s freedom and independence, standing proudly in Marktplatz. The 5.5-meter statue is the largest freestanding statue of its kind in Germany. According to legend, as long as the Roland Statue stands, Bremen’s freedom and independence will be protected. This cherished monument has been preserved by Bremen’s citizens long before its official designation as a World Heritage Site.
Name: Bremen Town Hall and Roland Statue in Marktplatz
Address: Am Markt 21, 28195 Bremen, Germany
Official Website: Bremen Tourism
How to Access Bremen’s Town Hall and Roland Statue in Marktplatz
There are no direct flights from Japan to Bremen. Travelers typically transfer via major German or European cities to reach Bremen Airport, which takes approximately 15 hours in total. From Bremen Airport, the Old Town is about 15 minutes by tram.
By train from major nearby cities in Germany, it takes approximately 1 hour by express train from Hamburg, 4 hours from Frankfurt, and 3 hours from Berlin. From Bremen Central Station, it is about a 17-minute walk to Marktplatz, where the UNESCO World Heritage sites are located, or about 5 minutes by tram. Taking a stroll from Bremen Central Station to Marktplatz is also highly recommended.
Recommended Highlights of Bremen’s Town Hall and Roland Statue ①: The Town Hall
Construction of the Town Hall began in 1405, originally built in the Gothic style. In the 17th century, it was expanded in the unique Weser Renaissance style of northern Germany, resulting in a breathtaking façade. It is an important architectural landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While the exterior is magnificent, the interior is just as luxurious, resembling a palace. One of the most recommended highlights is the Great Hall, where intricately decorated ceilings feature multiple ship models hanging from above, and the walls are adorned with stunning paintings. Other remarkable areas include the Art Nouveau-style Golden Chamber, the Upper Council Hall, and the Lower Council Hall, all filled with sculptures and paintings reminiscent of an art museum.
In the basement, there is a restaurant that has been in operation since 1405. Visitors can also join a tour to explore the wine cellar, making it a great experience for wine enthusiasts.
While the architectural beauty of this World Heritage Site often takes center stage, don’t forget to explore its fascinating interior as well.
Recommended highlights of Bremen’s Town Hall and Roland Statue ②: the Roland Statue
Located in Marktplatz and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Town Hall, the Roland Statue was created in 1404. It is a massive statue of Roland, the hero from the medieval literary work *The Song of Roland*. The statue stands 5.5 meters tall. Originally made of wood, it was burned down by an archbishop who opposed the Hanseatic merchants. However, it was later rebuilt and now stands as a stone statue.
As a symbol of Bremen’s freedom and independence, the Roland Statue has been carefully preserved by its citizens. During World War II, they even built a brick shelter around it to protect it from damage.
There are actually four Roland statues within Bremen. One interesting rumor suggests that a spare statue is kept in the basement of the Town Hall in case the original ever falls. This shows that the statue has been a significant part of Bremen’s heritage long before its designation as a World Heritage Site.
Recommended highlights of Bremen’s Town Hall and Roland Statue ③: the Town Musicians of Bremen statue
When thinking of Bremen, the fairy tale The Town Musicians of Bremen by the Brothers Grimm likely comes to mind.
In Marktplatz, the city that the musicians aimed to reach, there is a bronze statue dedicated to them. It is located near the western wall of the Town Hall and stands two meters tall, so be sure not to miss it while admiring the World Heritage-listed Town Hall and Roland Statue.
Erected in 1953, this statue is one of Bremen’s most popular attractions, alongside the Roland Statue. The familiar and charming animal figures from the story make it an endearing sight. There is also a local superstition about the donkey in the statue—if you rub its front legs while making a wish, it is said to come true. However, it is important to use both hands; if you only use one, your wish may remain just a dream.
◎ Conclusion
What do you think of Bremen’s World Heritage-listed Town Hall and Roland Statue? The Town Hall, considered one of the most beautiful in Germany, and the Roland Statue, a source of pride for the citizens, are must-visit landmarks.
There are also many other sightseeing spots around Marktplatz. The Town Hall and Roland Statue allow visitors to experience the spirit of freedom and independence from the Hanseatic League era. Why not take a trip to see them for yourself?