Kallendresser

A quirky Cologne figure on the Alter Markt baring its backside towards the city hall – a cheeky piece of Cologne folk humour.

Curiosity Old town Photo spot

The Kallendresser is one of Cologne's most curious figures. The name is Cologne dialect for someone who relieves himself into the gutter ("Kalle"). The cheeky figure has played a role in Cologne since the Middle Ages.

Source: Wikipedia · retrieved 2026-06-24

At a glance

Location: a gable on the Alter Markt (facing the city hall)
Also found: on the consoles of the city-hall tower
Tradition: since the Middle Ages
Character: Cologne folk humour in stone

A Cologne cheek

A well-known Kallendresser figure bares its backside towards the city hall from a gable on the Alter Markt – a tongue-in-cheek symbol of Cologne's rebellious streak against authority. Corresponding figures can also be found on the city-hall tower. A charming detail that captures Cologne wit perfectly.