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Square · Erfurt, Turíngia
Fischmarkt
The historic heart of Erfurt’s old town, with the neo-Gothic town hall from 1875, Renaissance houses such as the Haus zum Breiten Herd, and the warrior column Römer from 1591.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fischmarkt
The Fischmarkt has been the central square of Erfurt’s old town since the Middle Ages, halfway between the Domplatz and the Krämerbrücke. A town hall already stood on the site in 1275; the current neo-Gothic building dates from 1875 and was expanded in the 1930s.
Around the square are the houses of wealthy Renaissance merchants. The Haus zum Breiten Herd, from 1584, illustrates the city’s wealth at the time; the Haus zum Roten Ochsen, from 1562, houses the Kunsthalle Erfurt with temporary art exhibitions.
In the middle of the square, a 1591 column supports the figure of an armed warrior, called Römer. It was erected as a message to the Archbishop of Mainz: the citizens would defend their liberties, if necessary, by force.
The square is a thoroughfare between the main attractions and has cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating in the warm months.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
15 to 30 minutes. Allow more time if you visit the Kunsthalle.
Best time
At any time of day. In the late afternoon the Renaissance façades are nicely lit.
How to get there
It lies between the Domplatz and the Krämerbrücke, about a 5-minute walk from each. Tram stop: Fischmarkt.
Tip
Notice the details on the Haus zum Breiten Herd and the Haus zum Roten Ochsen around the square. Check the Kunsthalle’s program before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fischmarkt
What is the statue in the middle of the square?
It is the Römer, a warrior figure atop a column from 1591, symbolizing the city's defense of its liberties against the Archbishop of Mainz.
Is the town hall medieval?
No. The current building is neo-Gothic, from 1875, but there has been a town hall on the same site since the 13th century.
Where is the Kunsthalle Erfurt located?
In the Haus zum Roten Ochsen, a Renaissance house from 1562 facing the Fischmarkt. Check current exhibitions before you go.