Here in Dusseldorf stands a testament to joy. It embodies a spirited tradition. This is the Radschläger – Wir im Tannenhof Sculpture.
The Radschlägerbrunnen, or Cartwheeler’s Fountain, is a symbol of Dusseldorf’s culture. The fountain was built in 1954 by sculptor Alfred Zschorsch. It has been an integral part of the city’s identity ever since. The Radschlägerbrunnen features two bronze statues. They depict children doing cartwheels. A boy and a girl are set against a stone background. The background shows scenes from local folklore.
These figures represent an old Dusseldorf tradition. It is the art of doing cartwheels or “Radschlagen”. Legend says that Jan Wellem returned victorious from battle in 1288. The children welcomed him with joyous cartwheels. This practice became a symbol of happiness in Dusseldorf.
The ‘Radschläger’ figure has become emblematic. You can find it all around Dusseldorf. Look for it on manhole covers. Find it in souvenir shops as figurines. There is even an annual cartwheeling competition. Kids compete to see who can do the most impressive cartwheel.
The Radschlägerbrunnen is located in Burgplatz square. Burgplatz once housed a castle. The fountain is close to the Rhine Tower and the Old Town. Visitors can stroll along the Rhine embankment. They can appreciate this artistic piece of history.
The fountain is well-maintained. It provides an excellent backdrop for photographs. It is particularly beautiful at night. The illumination creates an enchanting atmosphere.
The Düsseldorfer Radschläger tradition has many legends. One says that children cartwheeled for tourists in the late 19th century. This was a way to earn money. Friedrich Becker created a well-known cartwheeler design. He first used it in 1958 on the Lord Mayor’s chain. In 1960, he added it to St Lambertus Church as a door handle.
In 1995, Becker created a sculpture for the Schadow Arcades. It is a cube made from the silhouettes of six cartwheeling children. The cartwheeler’s shape is now an emblem of Dusseldorf.
Movement was important to Friedrich Becker. He loved cheerfulness. The Radschläger stands for the close ties of citizens to their city. In 2022, a large Radschläger was installed at the Dusseldorf University of Applied Sciences.
Take a moment to appreciate the Radschläger Sculpture. It represents Dusseldorf’s history. It also stands for joy. Remember the cartwheeling children. They embody the spirit of this city. They remind us to celebrate life’s victories.