Bremen Roland: Guardian of Freedom
Discover the Bremen Roland, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a powerful symbol of freedom and market rights in the heart of Bremen's historic Marktplatz, embodying the city's rich Hanseatic past.
The Bremen Roland, a towering statue in Bremen's Marktplatz, is more than just a monument; it's a symbol of the city's enduring quest for freedom and market rights. Erected in 1404, this UNESCO World Heritage site represents Roland, a paladin of Charlemagne, embodying the city's independence from the church and feudal lords. Standing at over 10 meters tall, with a sword raised and shield emblazoned with the Imperial eagle, the Roland has watched over Bremen for centuries. It is a focal point for tourists, offering a tangible connection to Bremen's rich history and its status as a free imperial city within the Holy Roman Empire. The statue's imposing presence and historical significance make it a must-see attraction, embodying the spirit of Bremen.
A brief summary to Bremen Roland
- Am Markt, Bremen, Mitte, 28195, DE
- +494213080010
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best light for photographs of the Roland and the surrounding Marktplatz.
- Take a guided tour of the Bremen Town Hall to learn more about the historical context of the Roland and its significance to the city.
- Explore the nearby Böttcherstrasse and Schnoor Quarter for a deeper dive into Bremen's unique architecture and cultural attractions.
Getting There
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Walking
The Bremen Roland is located in the Marktplatz (market square) in the heart of Bremen's city center. From Bremen Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), walk straight ahead following the tram lines towards the city center. After approximately 15 minutes, you'll reach the Domsheide. From there, turn left and walk for about 5 minutes, passing the Bremen Cathedral on your right. The Roland statue will be directly in front of you in the Marktplatz. This walk is free and offers a pleasant introduction to the city.
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Public Transport
From Bremen Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take tram lines 4, 5, 6, or 8 to the 'Domsheide' stop. From Domsheide, walk towards the Bremen Cathedral (Dom). The Bremen Roland is located in the Marktplatz, just a short walk from the Domsheide stop. A single ticket for a short trip (Kurzstrecke) costs approximately €1.60. Alternatively, a single ticket (Preisstufe I) valid for the city zone costs €2.85 and can be purchased at the BSAG customer service center at the train station or at the tram stop Domsheide.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Bremen Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the Marktplatz, where the Bremen Roland is located, takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Driving
If driving, use a GPS navigation system to reach Bremen's city center. Parking is limited in the immediate vicinity of the Marktplatz. Consider parking at the 'BREPARKhaus Am Dom' parking garage (Wilhadistraße 1, 28195 Bremen), which is a short walk from the Roland. Parking fees at this garage are approximately €2.5 per hour or €19 for 24 hours. Be aware that Bremen is an environmental zone (Umweltzone), and you may need a green sticker for your vehicle.
Discover more about Bremen Roland
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heralds at Bremen City Hall
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Garten der Bürgerschaft, der Hansestadt Bremen
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Bismarck monument
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Bringer of Light
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Tower Blowers Fountain
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Marcus Fountain
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Seven Lazy Brothers Fountain
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Roselius-Haus Museum
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Dom-Museum
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Atlantis House
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St. John's Church
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Martinianleger
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Shepherd with pigs
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Kleinstes Haus Deutschlands
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Bremer Geschichtenhaus | bras e.V.
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bremen Market Square
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Town Musicians of Bremen
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Bremen Hole
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Bremen Town Hall
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Haus Schütting
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Bleikeller
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St. Petri Dom Bremen
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Domshof
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Glockenspiel House
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Böttcherstraße
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Holzskulptur der Stadtmusikanten
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Pegs Statues Bremen
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Weser Promenade Bremen
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Stavendamm
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Schnoor
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Essential places to dine
Bremen Ratskeller
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John Benton Restaurant
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Beck's Bistro - Bremen
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Due Fratelli
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Kleiner Ratskeller
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Schüttinger Gasthausbrauerei
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alto
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Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar
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La Bottega
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Ständige Vertretung Rheinland Bremen
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THE LOBBY
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September
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Fischrestaurant Knurrhahn
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Osteria
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1885 Die Burger Bremen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Martinshof City Shop
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Bremen Chocolade HACHEZ
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Werkschau-Laden
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Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur
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Böttcher 8
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Karstadt Bremen
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Manufactum Warenhaus
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Stadtwaage
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HUT.de Store Bremen
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Domshof Passage
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Lloyd Passage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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ATLANTIC Bar
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Blauer Fasan Bar Bremen
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Little Mary's Irish Pub - Bremen
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Lemon Garden - Cocktailbar Bremen
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Red Rock
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