One of the most iconic symbols of Hamburg is not a grand cathedral, an imposing palace or a towering skyscraper. Instead, it’s a humble statue known as Zitronenjette – or Lemon Jette in English. This bronze figure stands proudly in Hansaplatz square and has become one of the city’s most beloved landmarks.
The History of Zitronenjette
The story behind this seemingly ordinary statue is deeply interwoven with Hamburg’s history and culture, making it far more than just another piece of public art. The real-life Zitronenjette was Johanna Maria Lindemann (1844-1925), who became famous for selling lemons on the streets of her native city.
Born into poverty, Lindemann was forced to beg from an early age after losing both parents. Her life took an unexpected turn when she met a sailor who gave her some lemons he’d brought back from his travels. Realizing that these exotic fruits were highly sought after by local sailors due to their ability to prevent scurvy, she began selling them on the streets.
Lindemann soon became known as ‘Zitronenjettchen’, which means little lemon girl in German dialect Low German, because she would always carry around her basket full of lemons while shouting out “Köpt miene Appeln un Citroenen!” (“Buy my apples and lemons!”). Despite her difficult circumstances, she quickly won over locals with her cheerful disposition and zest for life.
Zitronenjette: A Symbol Of Resilience And Optimism
Her resilience during hardship turned Zitronenjette into something more than just a street vendor; she became symbolic of Hamburg itself – hardworking, resilient yet optimistic even amid adversity. This spirit is perfectly encapsulated in the statue, which was created by sculptor Waldemar Otto and unveiled in 1986.
The bronze statue depicts Zitronenjette as a small woman with a determined expression on her face and a basket of lemons slung over her arm. It stands at eye level, inviting passers-by to engage with it rather than simply admire it from afar.
Visiting The Zitronenjette Statue
If you’re planning to visit Hamburg, make sure to include the Zitronenjette statue on your itinerary. Located in Hansaplatz square in the heart of St Georg neighborhood, this landmark is easily accessible by foot or public transport.
Beyond its historical significance, visiting this site offers an opportunity for reflection and appreciation of Hamburg’s rich past. As you stand before the figure of Lemon Jette – surrounded by modern buildings yet standing firmly rooted in history – you’ll be reminded that every city has its heroes; they might not always be kings or generals but could also be humble lemon sellers who embody their city’s spirit like no one else can.
Zitronenjette: More Than A Monument
In conclusion, while many cities boast grand monuments dedicated to famous leaders or historic events, few have something quite as unique as Hamburg’s Zitronenjette. This unassuming bronze figure serves not only as a tribute to Johanna Maria Lindemann but also symbolizes the resilience and optimism that are so integral to Hamburg’s identity.
Whether you’re interested in history or just want to see another side of Germany’s second-largest city beyond its well-known landmarks such as Elbphilharmonie concert hall or Miniatur Wunderland model railway exhibition, don’t miss out on experiencing this piece of Hamburg’s heart and soul.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Zitronenjette in Hamburg?
The Zitronenjette, or Lemon Jett, is a popular bronze statue located in the city of Hamburg, Germany. It was created by sculptor Gerhard Brandes and unveiled on 15 October 1986. The statue represents a historical figure named Johanna Frederike Lyser who was known as “Zitronenjette”. She sold lemons for a living during the late 19th century and became a well-known character due to her unique personality and distinctive attire.
Where can I find the Zitronenjette in Hamburg?
You can find this iconic monument at Hansaplatz Square near St. Georg district in central Hamburg. This location is easily accessible by public transportation with major bus routes stopping nearby and it’s just a short walk from the Central Train Station (Hauptbahnhof). The exact address is Hansaplatz, 20099 Hamburg, Germany.
Why is Zitronenjette significant to the history of Hamburg?
Zitronenjette holds cultural significance because she embodies an era of working-class women who made their living through street vending during difficult times in German history. Her story reflects resilience amidst hardship which resonates with many people even today. Additionally, she has become an emblematic figure representing local folklore that adds charm to the city’s rich heritage.
Can I take photos with Zitronenjette? Are there any restrictions or rules regarding this?
Absolutely! Visitors are welcome to take pictures with Zitronenjette – it’s actually one of those must-do things when you’re visiting this part of town! There are no specific restrictions or rules about taking photos; however, it’s always a good idea to respect the monument and not climb or cause any potential damage.
Are there any special events or celebrations associated with Zitronenjette?
While there are no specific events centered around Zitronenjette, the statue is often included in local tours and cultural walks that highlight Hamburg’s history. From time to time, locals also decorate her during festivals or special occasions which adds an extra layer of charm to this already fascinating figure. It’s always worth checking out if you’re visiting during a city-wide celebration!
