Cities
Germany Cologne Rhine-Westphalia Historical Landmark

Schmitz Column

About

The Schmitz Column is one of Cologne’s quirkiest monuments, standing in front of Groß St. Martin in the heart of the Old Town. Erected in 1969, it is dedicated to all Cologne residents and takes its name from “Schmitz,” the city’s most common surname. According to local legend, Roman legionnaires once met women of the Ubii tribe here, and their descendants became the archetypal “Schmitzens” of Cologne. To underline this playful story, the column was built using stones from the ancient Roman harbour basin discovered nearby. Rising more than four meters high, it is both a humorous nod to the city’s origins and a reminder of Cologne’s layered history. Adding to its eccentricity, the column also bears an inscription commemorating the first moon landing, linking ancient myth with modern achievement. Today, the Schmitz Column is less about grandeur and more about identity, humor, and continuity, embodying the city’s love of storytelling and its ability to weave history and legend into everyday life.

Cologne Germany
Schmitz Column
Location

The Schmitz Column is located in the centre of Cologne’s historic Alter Markt square, directly in front of Groß St. Martin church, with Lintgasse as the closest street address. This quirky monument stands just 700 metres from Cologne Central Station and is easily reached on foot or by public transport—tram line 5 to the “Rathaus” stop is only a short walk away. Its surroundings are bustling with cafés, restaurants, and traditional breweries, while the square itself hosts frequent markets and public events. Nearby, you’ll find the impressive Great St. Martin Church, the iconic Cologne Cathedral, and the city’s lively pedestrian shopping streets, making the column a popular stopping point in the heart of Cologne’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and an excellent base for exploring architectural, historical, and cultural highlights of the city centre.​

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