Altmarkt, Central market square in Cottbus, Germany

Altmarkt is the central square of Cottbus surrounded by residential buildings in Saxon Baroque style and classical houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. A fountain with ornate sandstone reliefs stands at the center, defining the square's visual character.

The square was a medieval trading center with timber-framed houses surrounding the market where merchants and craftspeople sold their goods. This central role as a marketplace has remained and continues to shape the identity of the place today.

The fountain displays eight sandstone reliefs showing craftspeople and local historical moments that shaped daily life in the city. These carvings celebrate the ordinary workers who built the community over time.

The square connects to several streets including Sandower Straße and Berliner Straße and provides easy access to shops, cafes, and the Altes Stadthaus building. You can walk through at your own pace and take in the surrounding buildings and the central fountain while exploring the area.

The fountain was built as recently as 1990 and includes a figure of Marie Groch, a historical cake seller, sculpted by artist Egmar Ponndorf alongside other market workers. This relatively recent addition blends contemporary sculpture with memory of the square's past trades.

• Location: Cottbus
• GPS coordinates: 51.76070,14.33460
• Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:09