Aachen, a city renowned for its imperial past and architectural grandeur, also harbors a delightful collection of smaller, yet equally captivating, landmarks. Among these, the Hühnerdieb in Aachen stands as a testament to the city’s unique blend of history, folklore, and artistic expression. This charming fountain, often translated as “Chicken Thief,” depicts a comical scene that has become a beloved local legend and a must-see for visitors exploring Aachen’s historic center.
The Location and the Legend
The Hühnerdieb fountain is located in the heart of Aachen’s old town, specifically on the Hühnermarkt (Chicken Market) square. This location is intrinsically linked to the fountain’s name and the amusing story it tells. Historically, this square was indeed a bustling market where poultry was bought and sold, giving rise to the fountain’s thematic inspiration.
The legend portrayed by the Hühnerdieb is a classic piece of local folklore. It depicts a thief who, in the dark of night, attempts to steal a chicken from a coop. However, in his haste and the darkness, he mistakenly grabs a rooster instead of a hen. As he makes his getaway, the rooster suddenly crows loudly, alerting the farmer and leading to the thief’s immediate capture. The fountain captures this precise moment of revelation and comical failure, with the thief’s surprised expression and the triumphant rooster. While this particular scene isn’t based on a documented historical event, it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of local storytelling and adds a layer of whimsical charm to the city’s historical narrative.
From Creation to Rebirth: The Hühnerdieb’s Journey
The original Hühnerdieb in Aachen fountain was the work of Berlin sculptor Hermann Joachim Pagels. He initially created a wooden model of the figure in 1911, hoping to sell multiple copies. However, it was his bronze rendition, complete with an octagonal basin, that caught the attention of Aachen’s then-mayor, Philipp Veltmann, at the Great Berlin Art Exhibition in 1913.
The mayor acquired the Hühnerdieb fountain with funds from the Adele-Cockerill-Stiftung, a local foundation, and it was triumphantly unveiled on Christmas Day, 1913, at the Hühnermarkt, much to the surprise and delight of the Aachen populace. The fountain quickly became an integral part of the cityscape, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the historic market square.
However, like many other bronze monuments across Germany, the original Hühnerdieb faced a perilous fate during World War II. The metal shortage of the war era led to the tragic melting down of the original bronze figure for its material. This was a common and heartbreaking loss for many communities, as cherished artworks were sacrificed for the war effort.
Yet, the story of the Hühnerdieb, much like Aachen itself, is one of resilience and rebirth. Miraculously, Hermann Joachim Pagels, the original sculptor, had preserved the original plaster model of the figure. After the war, in 1950, and despite being 72 years old, Pagels was able to create a new cast of the bronze figure. This monumental effort was supported by generous donations from Aachen citizens, local companies, and various associations, including the Aachener Karneval (Carnival Committee), Aachener Nachrichten, and Aachener Volkszeitung.
The newly cast Hühnerdieb was ceremoniously re-inaugurated on November 8, 1953, returning to its rightful place on the Hühnermarkt. This act of restoration not only brought back a beloved piece of public art but also symbolized Aachen’s recovery and its determination to cherish its cultural identity in the post-war era.
Hühnerdieb is part of Aachen scavenger hunt and walking tour!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting city of Aachen with World City Trail. Our interactive walking tour combines the thrill of exploration with the rich history and culture of this beautiful city.
Key Features:
Interactive gameplay: Solve engaging puzzles and challenges as you explore the city.
Hidden gems: Uncover lesser-known spots.
Cultural insights: Learn about the city’s fascinating history.
Flexibility: Explore at your own pace and create your own itinerary.
Family friendly activity and a great way to explore the city!
Aachen Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour
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