Background

Willy Millowitsch Denkmal: A Cologne Icon

Sit with Cologne's beloved comedian Willy Millowitsch at his Denkmal, a bronze tribute to his legacy of laughter and Kölsch culture in the heart of the city's vibrant old town.

4.5

The Willy Millowitsch Denkmal, a bronze statue of the beloved Cologne actor and comedian, Willy Millowitsch, sits in the heart of the city's old town on Willy-Millowitsch-Platz. This monument isn't just a statue; it's a tribute to a local legend who captured the hearts of generations with his humor and performances. Millowitsch, a true 'Kölsche Original,' was known for his theater, television, and musical appearances, embodying the spirit of Cologne. Visitors are encouraged to sit beside the life-sized statue on its park bench, snap a photo, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the square. Surrounded by shops and cafes, the Denkmal offers a perfect starting point to explore Cologne's rich cultural heritage and experience the city's unique charm. It serves as a reminder of the joy and laughter that Millowitsch brought to the city, making it a must-see for anyone wanting to connect with Cologne's identity.

A brief summary to Willy-Millowitsch-Denkmal

  • Willy-Millowitsch-Platz, Breite Str., Cologne, Innenstadt, 50667, DE
  • +49221346430

Local tips

  • Sit beside Willy on the bench for a memorable photo opportunity and soak in the local atmosphere.
  • Explore the surrounding Breite Straße for shopping and dining options.
  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), take tram line 16 or 18 to Appellhofplatz. From there, it's approximately a 4-minute walk to Willy-Millowitsch-Platz. Walk south along Breite Straße, and the square will be on your right. A single tram fare is approximately €3.00.

  • Walking

    From Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), head southwest on Grosse Budengasse towards Unter Fettenhennen. Continue straight until you reach Heumarkt square. At Heumarkt, turn left onto Breite Str. and walk straight for about 10 minutes. You will see Willy-Millowitsch-Platz on your right. The monument is located at the center of the square.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) to Willy-Millowitsch-Platz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available at Gertrudenparkhaus on Willy-Millowitsch-Platz 1 (Breite Str. 169-177). The parking fee is approximately €2.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of €25.00. Keep in mind that parking in the city center can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.

Unlock the Best of Willy-Millowitsch-Denkmal

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Willy-Millowitsch-Denkmal

The Willy Millowitsch Denkmal, located on Willy-Millowitsch-Platz in Cologne's Innenstadt (inner city), is more than just a monument; it's a vibrant tribute to one of the city's most beloved personalities. Willy Millowitsch (1909-1999) was a celebrated actor, comedian, and singer who became synonymous with Cologne's unique culture and spirit. The bronze statue, created by sculptor Raimund Kittl, depicts Millowitsch sitting on a park bench, inviting visitors to sit alongside him and share a moment with the city's icon. Millowitsch's career spanned decades, encompassing theater, television, and music. He was the driving force behind the Millowitsch-Theater, a family-run establishment that showcased plays in the local Kölsch dialect. These productions, often humorous and heartwarming, resonated deeply with the people of Cologne and beyond. Millowitsch's performances on television, particularly in the play 'Der Etappenhase' in 1953, brought him national fame and solidified his status as a household name. Beyond his artistic achievements, Millowitsch was known for his warm personality and his dedication to Cologne. He was a true 'Kölsche Original,' embodying the city's cheerful and welcoming spirit. His contributions to Cologne's cultural landscape were recognized with numerous awards, including honorary citizenship in 1989. The Willy Millowitsch Denkmal was erected in 1992, during Millowitsch's lifetime, as a testament to his enduring legacy. Originally located in front of the Hänneschen Theater on Eisenmarkt, the statue was moved to its current location on Willy-Millowitsch-Platz in 2014. The square itself was named in Millowitsch's honor in 2013, further cementing his place in Cologne's history. Visiting the Willy Millowitsch Denkmal offers a unique opportunity to connect with Cologne's cultural heritage. The statue is situated in a lively area, surrounded by shops, cafes, and other attractions. Visitors can take a break on the bench next to Millowitsch, snap a photo, and soak in the atmosphere of the city. The Denkmal serves as a reminder of the importance of humor, community, and the arts in Cologne's identity. To fully appreciate the significance of the Willy Millowitsch Denkmal, it's helpful to understand the context of Cologne's cultural landscape. The city has a long and rich history of theater and music, with numerous venues and festivals celebrating the arts. Millowitsch's contributions to this scene were particularly significant, as he helped to popularize the Kölsch dialect and to create a sense of community through his performances. The Millowitsch-Theater, which was located just a few hundred meters from the Denkmal on Rudolfplatz, played a central role in Cologne's cultural life for many years. The theater showcased plays in Kölsch, often featuring Millowitsch and his family members. These productions were known for their humor, their heartwarming stories, and their celebration of Cologne's unique identity. Although the Millowitsch-Theater closed in 2018, its legacy continues to live on through the Willy Millowitsch Denkmal and the memories of those who attended its performances. Today, the Willy Millowitsch Denkmal stands as a symbol of Cologne's cultural heritage and a tribute to a man who brought joy and laughter to generations. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Cologne and wanting to experience the city's unique spirit. Take a seat next to Willy, soak in the atmosphere, and let the 'Kölsche' spirit embrace you. The area surrounding the Willy-Millowitsch-Denkmal is also worth exploring. Breite Straße is a major shopping street with a variety of stores and boutiques. The nearby Apostelnstraße and Gertrudenstraße offer a mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also explore the historic Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets and traditional buildings. For those interested in learning more about Willy Millowitsch, the Cologne City Museum (Kölnisches Stadtmuseum) features exhibits on his life and career. The museum also showcases the history of Cologne and its cultural traditions. The Willy Millowitsch Denkmal is more than just a statue; it's a symbol of Cologne's identity and a tribute to a man who brought joy and laughter to generations. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Cologne and wanting to experience the city's unique spirit. So, take a seat next to Willy, soak in the atmosphere, and let the 'Kölsche' spirit embrace you.

Popular Experiences near Willy-Millowitsch-Denkmal

Popular Hotels near Willy-Millowitsch-Denkmal

Select Currency