Jan and Griet: a tale as old as time. This is the story behind Cologne’s Heimatdenkmal. The Heimatdenkmal, or Jan von Werth Monument, stands proudly near the cathedral in Cologne’s old town. It’s more than just a fountain. It’s a symbol of love, rejection, and triumph.
The story goes that Griet turned down Jan’s marriage proposal. She thought he wasn’t good enough because he was just a servant, socially weak and poor. Heartbroken, Jan joined the army. Years later, after many battles, he returned to Cologne a hero. He triumphantly entered through the Severin Gate with his troops. There at the market, he saw Griet selling fruit at a farmer’s stand.
Jan tipped his hat and said, “Griet, who would have thought.” Griet replied, “Jan, who could have known.” He rode away. Jan never forgave her for seeking a better match. The monument shows Jan reigning supreme. Even world wars couldn’t topple him.
The Heimatdenkmal was erected in 1884. It commemorates Jan von Werth’s achievements. He was one of the most famous German cavalry generals of the Thirty Years’ War. He fought from the Battle of the White Mountain in 1620 to the Battle of Dachau in 1648.
The obelisk fountain has three parts. Steps and a pedestal with a water basin form the lower part. There are two large and two smaller basins. They were originally intended for market visitors. Relief panels show Jan and Griet. They depict them as a young couple and at their reunion.
The north and south sides feature seated figures. The male figure represents a Cologne farmer. The female symbolizes the virgin. She is interpreted as the city’s defensiveness and purity. Jan von Werth stands at the top of the monument. He stands with legs apart in a coat and boots. He leans on his sword.
The people of Cologne quickly embraced the Heimatdenkmal. However, some youths misbehaved. They used it as a urinal. Market women washed their dirty vegetable stews in the water. The fire station monitored the fountain for four weeks. The Cologne market women ensured no harm came to it.
In 1918, authorities tried to melt down the Heimatdenkmal for cannons. Fortunately, its stone construction saved it. During World War II, bombs destroyed Alter Markt. But the Heimatdenkmal miraculously survived. It shook but remained firm. This fits perfectly with Jan and Griet’s story.
So, as you stand before the Heimatdenkmal, remember Jan and Griet. Remember their story of love, loss, and triumph. This monument is a reminder that even rejection can lead to greatness. It’s a Cologne variation of the classic rags-to-riches tale.