Heinzelmännchen Fountain
A beloved fountain on Am Hof telling the legend of Cologne's ‘Heinzelmännchen' – a charming landmark right by the Früh brewpub.
The Heinzelmännchen Fountain on Am Hof, near the Früh brewpub and the cathedral, tells one of Cologne's best-known legends: that of the industrious Heinzelmännchen (house gnomes).
At a glance
- Erected
- 1899/1900
- Location
- Am Hof, near the cathedral and Früh brewpub
- Theme
- the legend of the Cologne Heinzelmännchen
- Character
- a popular photo and keepsake motif
Source: Wikipedia · retrieved 2026-06-24
The legend of the Heinzelmännchen
According to the legend, the Heinzelmännchen – small, industrious house gnomes – secretly did the work of Cologne's citizens at night. Until the curious wife of a tailor spied on them and scattered peas on the stairs, so that the gnomes slipped and fell. Ever since, it is said, they vanished for good – and the people of Cologne have had to do their own work again. The fountain keeps this endearing story alive to this day.
Gallery
Map
Blue dots: other places nearby — tap to explore.
Address
Am Hof 12-14
50667 Köln
Hours
So: 00:00–24:00
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Sources & links
Auto-generated, last verified: 2026-06-23