The Waldmops at the Cathedral: A whimsical tribute to Loriot

The Waldmops am Brunnen/Dom is more than just a statue; it's a symbol of Brandenburg an der Havel's unique identity and its connection to one of Germany's most beloved comedians, Loriot. These bronze sculptures, scattered throughout the city, depict the Waldmops, a fictional creature born from Loriot's comedic genius. The Waldmops is essentially a pug with antlers, a whimsical creation that perfectly encapsulates Loriot's absurdist humor. The statue near the Brandenburg Cathedral is strategically placed to blend the city's historical gravitas with a touch of lightheartedness. The Dominsel, or Cathedral Island, is the oldest part of Brandenburg an der Havel, steeped in history and home to the magnificent Brandenburg Cathedral. The Waldmops, positioned near this iconic landmark, offers a playful contrast, inviting visitors to appreciate both the city's rich heritage and its quirky modern identity. The story of the Waldmops began in 1972 with Loriot's sketch "Tierstunde – Der wilde Waldmops" (Animal Hour – The Wild Waldmops). In this sketch, Loriot, playing a wildlife expert, humorously traces the pug's evolution back to a majestic, antlered elk. According to Loriot, the "scheue Waldmops" (shy forest pug) is a transitional form that still roams German forests, causing mischief and sporting a small but sturdy set of antlers. The sketch satirizes human interference in nature and the often-absurd results of selective breeding. More than four decades later, the Brandenburger Kulturverein (Brandenburg Cultural Association) decided to honor Loriot, who was born in Brandenburg an der Havel and made an honorary citizen, by bringing his Waldmops to life. A competition was held, and Clara Walter, then a student of architecture and interior design, won with her concept of a Waldmops center. Her idea was to release the comical creature into nature, creating a lasting tribute to Loriot's legacy. The first Waldmops statues were installed in 2015, and their popularity quickly grew. Today, there are over two dozen Waldmöpse scattered throughout Brandenburg an der Havel, each with its own unique pose and personality. They can be found lounging near the Johanniskirche, sniffing around the Humboldthain, and, of course, standing proudly near the Dom. The Waldmops am Brunnen/Dom is particularly charming. It invites visitors to take a moment, smile, and appreciate the absurdity of it all. It's a perfect photo opportunity and a great conversation starter. As you explore the Dominsel, keep an eye out for this delightful creature and let it guide you through the city's fascinating history. Finding all the Waldmöpse has become a popular activity for tourists, turning the city into a sort of scavenger hunt. Each Waldmops is unique, and discovering them all offers a fun and engaging way to explore Brandenburg an der Havel's various neighborhoods and landmarks. The city even promotes "Waldmops walks," encouraging visitors to seek out these whimsical creatures and learn more about Loriot's connection to the city. The Waldmöpse have become an integral part of Brandenburg an der Havel's identity, attracting tourists and bringing joy to locals. They represent the city's ability to embrace humor and creativity while celebrating its rich history and cultural heritage. The Waldmops am Brunnen/Dom is a must-see for any visitor to Brandenburg an der Havel, offering a delightful blend of art, history, and humor.