From the Dom, or Paderborn Cathedral, walking down the Rathausplatz you’ll come across the small, but pleasant Marienplatz. Some of Paderborn’s most central shopping streets spill out onto this charming cobblestoned square, a great spot for people-watching and mingling with the locals.
On a warm and sunny day, sit down on the steps of the small amphitheater in the square and look up at the Mariensäule. This focal point of the square depicts the Virgin Mary, hands pressed together in front of her chest as if in prayer. Her peaceful image is standing atop a sphere that rests on a Gothic column with statues of angels on the corners. The lower tier of the column forms a fountain.
The four statues in the niches on each face of the column represent four important figures for the city. The first is St. Liborius, the patron saint of the cathedral and archdiocese of Paderborn. The second is Charlemagne, king of the Franks. The third is the priest St. Meinolf, who brought the relics of St. Liborius from Le Mans in 836. The fourth is Henry II, a Holy Roman Emperor from the 10th century.
The trees in the square give you some shade on hot summer days. A nearby shop selling ice creams is popular with local families and visitors alike. If you have more time, visit one of the many sidewalk cafés, bars and restaurants in the square. Depending on the season, enjoy a cold German beer or fragrant glühwein (mulled wine) while you watch the locals go by.
Events are regularly held around this statue, so check with the Tourism Office what is on during your stay. You might see fresh produce markets and art exhibits.
Marienplatz is open to the public year-round and free of charge. Since parking spots may be hard to come by during office hours, it is best to park outside of the Old Town and walk to Marienplatz. Local buses run throughout the city and can get you close to the square as well.
