The Heidelberg Bridge Monkey – and why he's hanging in our store

Hardly a week goes by without someone asking me in front of our shop: "Is that monkey figure here too?" Almost always, the person vaguely points towards the Old Bridge. Sometimes they hold up a photo on their phone – usually a selfie with their head behind the mask.

The short answer: Yes, it is. The longer one first leads to the story behind it.

Who is this monkey anyway?

The Bridge Monkey has been sitting at Heidelberg's Brückentor since the 15th century – or at least symbolically. The current figure dates from 1979, designed by sculptor Gernot Rumpf. It sits there with a mirror in its hand, looking at everyone who enters the bridge.

What does it want to say with that? Allegedly: First look at yourself before pointing at others. A pretty clever message for a stone monkey.

In its other hand, it holds mice – that is supposed to bring wealth if you touch them. And behind it is a mask through which you can stick your head. That gets photographed. Always. Without exception.

The story I experience most often

Many visitors come directly from the bridge to us. They've taken the selfie, are now looking for a souvenir – and then realize for the first time that the Bridge Monkey is also available to take home.

A Japanese couple once stood in front of our display case for what felt like an eternity, exchanged a few words in hushed tones, then looked at me and asked: "Is this the real one?" I thought for a moment, then replied: "The real one is sitting outside. But this one is more honest – it travels with you."

They bought two.

Why am I telling this?

Because the Bridge Monkey is one of those Heidelberg moments that visitors truly remember. The city is full of such stories. And sometimes people take a little piece of it with them.

If you don't know the Bridge Monkey yet: It sits at the north tower of the Old Bridge. Taking a selfie and touching the mice is part of it. Afterwards, you'll know why it has been sitting there for centuries.

And if you're looking for a souvenir – you can find it here in our shop.