Heinzelmännchen Fountain
A whimsical 19th-century fountain celebrating Cologne's legend of helpful gnomes who did chores at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the details clearly
Heinzelmännchen Fountain
Best Time
See the details clearly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical 19th-century fountain celebrating Cologne's legend of helpful gnomes who did chores at night.
"A fantastic tale told beautifully in the sculpture of the fountain."
📸 Capture the Story
Look for the details in the sculptures to tell the gnome legend in your photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walk from Station
It's a manageable walk from the central station, even with luggage. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gnome Sculptures
Base of the fountain
Intricately carved stone figures of the mythical Heinzelmännchen, caught in the act of hiding.
The Tailor's Wife
Top of the fountain
A statue of the tailor's wife, the figure who revealed the gnomes' secret, holding a lamp.
Seasonal Floral Displays
Around the fountain's base
Vibrant flowers often adorn the fountain, adding color and charm throughout the year.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Location & Access
Understanding the Legend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Story
Look for the details in the sculptures to tell the gnome legend in your photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walk from Station
It's a manageable walk from the central station, even with luggage. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Learn the Legend
Research the Heinzelmännchen tale beforehand for a richer experience. :books:
☕ Nearby Cafes
Enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes surrounding the small square. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Story
Look for the details in the sculptures to tell the gnome legend in your photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walk from Station
It's a manageable walk from the central station, even with luggage. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Learn the Legend
Research the Heinzelmännchen tale beforehand for a richer experience. :books:
☕ Nearby Cafes
Enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes surrounding the small square. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Heinzelmännchen Fountain to be a charming and artistically significant landmark, beautifully depicting a local legend. Its convenient location near the Old Town and train station is frequently praised, making it an easy addition to any itinerary. While small, its intricate details and the story it tells leave a positive impression.
"The location is really good, a few minutes away from the old city, I even ealked with my luggage from the central train station and it wasn't a big deal
The room is small, basic, but clean and bright
The toilet is super small, but the shower is working well, and the hot water is great.
I think many people would find it too tiny, I didn't have a problem with that bcz I'm petite, but if you're a big person it will be a problem
The online check-in and contactless key turn in was very smooth"
Yasmin Sabry
"In 1826 Ernst Weyden published a long-time known and told within the people of Cologne legend.The tale of the Heinzelmännchen had been passed down from generation to generation.It was essentially a myth about a dwarf-like creatures’ workshop.They’d used to gather all the work and chores of Cologne city’s citizens and complete it at night,whilst the town was asleep.They’d done all their work for them so the people of Cologne could be lazy all day every day.One day however,the wife of a tailor in Cologne wanted to figure out this conspiracy.How was everything getting done overnight and why were all people so idle?The Schneidersfrau as germans call her that memorable night spread green peas on the workshop’s floor so the mystical gnomes would go away and well…it worked.In time many tales and versions of the original story have been written and there also a popular german song related to the legend.
This beautiful fountain is all year round colored by the gorgeous flowers planted in front of it.The statue of the Schneidersfrau is made of iron,the original of which is in the Köln Museum as the fountain itself was restored and reconstructed a century ago.The rest of the intricately carved into the fountain legend is made out of stone by the same two people who composed the magnificent Cologne Cathedral.
During the winter the fountain is,of course,turned off.If you’ve at least heard about the story of the Heinzelmännchen i recommend deviating from your itinerary to take a look at this beauty.It’s just a street away from the Cologne Cathedral.Not big,but it surely impressed me."
ZM (Zara Marin)
"The Heinzelmaennchenbrunnen is a fountain that tells the story of Heinzelmännchen and the city of Cologne. The Heinzelmännchen are a race of gnome like creatures that was said once did all the work in Cologne, until a tailor's wife was curious to figure out how everything got done. The fountain features a lady standing on top of a set of stairs while holding a lamp, while all around her the Heinzelmännchen are stumbling around trying to hide or run away.
A fantastic tale told beautifully in the sculpture of the fountain"
macedonboy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Heinzelmännchen Fountain is conveniently located a short walk from Cologne Central Station, making it an easy destination even with luggage. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll through the city streets on their way to or from the Old Town.
Yes, the fountain is situated in a small square very close to Cologne's Old Town, making it a natural part of a walking tour of the historic center.
While walking is recommended, you can also take public transport to stations near the Old Town and then walk a few minutes to the fountain. Taxis are also an option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Heinzelmännchen Fountain is an outdoor public sculpture and can be viewed and admired freely without any admission fee.
As an outdoor attraction, the fountain is accessible at all times. However, the water may be turned off during winter months.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Heinzelmännchen Fountain. It's a free public art installation.
📸 📸 Photography
Daytime offers the best light to capture the intricate details of the sculptures and any seasonal flowers. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
Try capturing the full fountain with the tailor's wife at the top and the gnomes below. Close-ups of individual gnome figures also make for interesting shots.
While you can take photos at night, the details of the sculptures might be harder to see without good lighting. The fountain is not typically illuminated specifically for nighttime viewing.
🎫 🏛️ History & Art
The fountain commemorates the legend of the Heinzelmännchen, mythical gnomes who secretly completed the townspeople's chores at night until their secret was discovered.
The fountain was built in 1899, celebrating a legend that had been passed down through generations in Cologne.
The intricate stone carvings are attributed to the same artists who worked on the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
The original iron statue of the tailor's wife is housed in the Köln Museum, while the fountain itself has been restored and reconstructed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to local folklore in a fun, accessible way. The fountain's location near other Old Town attractions means it can easily be incorporated into a family-friendly walking route. Encourage children to spot the different gnomes and imagine their nighttime activities. The seasonal flowers also add an extra element of visual interest. Since it's an outdoor, free attraction, it's a perfect, low-stress addition to a day of sightseeing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
Take a few moments to appreciate the artistry and learn the story behind the gnomes. It's a perfect spot for a quick photo and a moment of reflection before continuing your exploration of Cologne's many attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Heinzelmännchen
This story is deeply ingrained in Cologne's cultural identity, and the fountain serves as a lasting tribute to this whimsical folklore. The sculptures vividly depict the gnomes in their hurried attempts to escape after their secret was discovered, with the tailor's wife observing them.
Understanding this narrative adds a layer of enchantment to the fountain, transforming it from a mere sculpture into a storytelling monument. It’s a reminder of the city’s rich history and the imaginative tales that have been passed down through generations.
Artistry and Restoration
One of the most striking elements is the statue of the tailor's wife, who stands atop the fountain holding a lamp, symbolizing her role in uncovering the gnomes' secret. While the original iron statue is now in the Köln Museum, its likeness is beautifully represented.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit