Market Square (Marktplatz) Tours and Activities

Marktplatz, or the Market Square, is in the heart of Heidelberg's old town and is often full of activities. It is located between the Church of the Holy Ghost and the Town Hall building. In the Middle Ages, this square was used for public proceedings which included burning witches and heretics at the stake, and putting people charged with petty crimes into cages so the public could torment them. The square was, and continues to be, used for markets where fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, flowers, crafts, and other food and goods are sold. Today the markets take place twice a week.

At the center of the square stands a fountain and statue of Hercules that was built in the early 1700s. The statue you see today is only a replica though; the original is kept safe in the Kurpfälzisches Museum. During warm months, the cafes located along the edges of the square have outdoor seating for patrons to enjoy the view and the nice weather.