Craving a bit of Cologne’s soul? Then look closely at the Hans Süper Denkmal before you. This isn’t just any statue. It is a tribute to a beloved local legend.
Hans Süper junior was born in Cologne on March 15, 1936. He passed away on December 3, 2022. He was a celebrated musician and comedian.
This bronze figure stands where Hans Süper felt most at home. It is on Berrenrather Straße in Köln-Sülz. The Denkmal captures Hans as Cologne remembers him. He sports his signature Flitsch, thick glasses, and hat.
The Hans Süper Denkmal unveiling was quite the event. It happened on August 18th. Many Kölsche Größen were there. JP Weber, Tommy Engel, Kai Engel, and Ludwig Sebus all performed. Special Kölsch glasses were sold for five euros. People could refill them. The Hans Süper Gesellschaft funded the Denkmal through donations. Plaques on the base show the names of donors. Each plaque cost 111 euros. The statue cost around 30000 euros. Artists Anton Fuchs and Heike Haupt only charged for materials.
Hans Süper’s impact is clear. The Denkmal’s creation shows how much Cologne loved him. He was a true original, a hundred percent Kölner. With Hans Zimmermann, he formed the Colonia Duett. For years, they delighted people during Karneval.
Tommy Engel’s presence at the unveiling wasn’t random. His father, Richard Engel, was with Hans Süper senior in the Vier Botzen. This band was famous for its wide trousers.
The one-meter-tall statue weighs 200 kilograms. It shows Hans with his Flitsch and friendly smile. The Denkmal is authentic. Christian Süper, Hans’ grandson, agrees.
Ruth, a lifelong Sülz resident said she always remembers Hans laughing. A funny story about Hans Süper is unforgettable for her. She told her friend from Düsseldorf that seeing Hans Süper on the street was normal.
The Hans-Süper-Gesellschaft also supports young Karneval artists. They give out the Hans-Süper-Preis every year. It is worth 1111 euros. Winners also get guaranteed performances.
The Lindenthal district also supported the Denkmal. Cornelia Weitekamp, the district mayor, attended the unveiling. She emphasized Hans Süper’s importance to Sülz.
So, as you pass the Hans Süper Denkmal remember the laughter. Remember the music. Remember a true Kölner original. He is forever smiling on Sülz.