Marktplatz (Market Square), Heidelberg (must see)
Heidelberg's main square, flanked by the Town Hall ("Rathaus") and the impressive Church of the Holy Spirit ("Heiliggeistkirche"), has been the city's focal point since medieval times. In earlier centuries, it served as the stage for public trials and the grim spectacles of witch burnings and heresy condemnations.
At the heart of the square stands the baroque Hercules Fountain, a testament to the city's resilience in the aftermath of the Thirty Years' War. Crafted by 18th-century artist Heinrich Charrasky, the fountain commemorates the Herculean efforts undertaken to rebuild Heidelberg. Adjacent to it once stood a rotating, hanging cage, serving as a stark reminder of past punishment practices. Those guilty of lesser offenses were incarcerated within, subjected to the scorn of their fellow citizens.
Today, the area bustles with activity, hosting outdoor markets every Wednesday and Saturday. Numerous eateries and cafes line its perimeter, many offering al fresco dining options to soak in the atmosphere. While here, don't miss the opportunity to ascend the church tower for a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings, available for a small fee.
At the heart of the square stands the baroque Hercules Fountain, a testament to the city's resilience in the aftermath of the Thirty Years' War. Crafted by 18th-century artist Heinrich Charrasky, the fountain commemorates the Herculean efforts undertaken to rebuild Heidelberg. Adjacent to it once stood a rotating, hanging cage, serving as a stark reminder of past punishment practices. Those guilty of lesser offenses were incarcerated within, subjected to the scorn of their fellow citizens.
Today, the area bustles with activity, hosting outdoor markets every Wednesday and Saturday. Numerous eateries and cafes line its perimeter, many offering al fresco dining options to soak in the atmosphere. While here, don't miss the opportunity to ascend the church tower for a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings, available for a small fee.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Heidelberg. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Marktplatz (Market Square) on Map
Sight Name: Marktplatz (Market Square)
Sight Location: Heidelberg, Germany (See walking tours in Heidelberg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Heidelberg, Germany (See walking tours in Heidelberg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Heidelberg, Germany
Create Your Own Walk in Heidelberg
Creating your own self-guided walk in Heidelberg is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Heidelberg Introduction Walking Tour
Heidelberg is located on the Neckar River and is Baden-W眉rttemberg鈥檚 fifth-largest city. One-quarter of the approximately 160,000 residents are students. Heidelberg University was founded in 1386 and is Germany鈥檚 oldest and one of Europe鈥檚 most prestigious universities. In addition, Heidelberg is home to internationally acclaimed research facilities, including four Max Planck Institutes.... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Philosophers鈥� Path
Heidelberg may be famous for its Castle, Old Town, and University, but its attractions don't stop there. A trip to Heidelberg isn't complete without visiting the Philosopher's Path.
Located on the northern side of the Neckar River, this popular path, about two kilometers long, meander along the sunny side of Holy Mountain. Over the centuries, it has inspired numerous scholars and... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Located on the northern side of the Neckar River, this popular path, about two kilometers long, meander along the sunny side of Holy Mountain. Over the centuries, it has inspired numerous scholars and... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles