Among Poznań’s many attractions, the most iconic symbol of Poznań is the mechanical goats, known as “koziołki,” (which translates to small, cute goats) which appear on the Town Hall tower.
The Historical Background of Poznań’s Goats
The tale of the Poznań mechanical goats dates back to the mid-16th century. After a devastating fire, the city’s authorities decided to rebuild the Town Hall and commissioned a grand clock from master craftsman Bartłomiej of Gubin. This clock, which was an extravagant addition at the time, was intended to showcase Poznań’s wealth and significance. To celebrate the installation of the clock, a grand feast was planned, attracting important guests from far and wide.
The Legend of Pietrek and the Goats
As preparations for the feast were underway, a young kitchen boy named Pietrek was tasked with roasting a venison leg, the main dish for the event. Distracted by the excitement outside and the tales of the new clock, Pietrek left his post to take a look at the bustling marketplace. In his absence, the roast fell into the fire and was ruined. Desperate to avoid punishment, Pietrek ran to a nearby meadow, captured two goats, and brought them back to the kitchen, hoping to substitute them for the burnt roast.
However, the goats escaped Pietrek’s grasp and ran up the Town Hall tower. There, they began butting heads, much to the amusement of the gathered dignitaries and onlookers. The sight was so entertaining that the mayor and guests decided to forgive Pietrek. They also instructed the clockmaker to create a mechanical device featuring the two goats, ensuring that this humorous and memorable event would be commemorated daily.
The Journey of Poznań’s Mechanical Goats
The mechanical goats made their debut on the Town Hall tower in 1551. However, their presence was short-lived. In 1675, a lightning strike destroyed the tower, including the clock and the goats. The goats would not return to the tower until the early 20th century, only to be damaged again during World War II in the Battle of Poznań in 1945. The goats were reinstalled in 1954, and the current figures, created in 1993, were designed by Dr. Stefan Krajewski from the Poznań University of Technology. These modern goats closely resemble the original figures and are powered by a sophisticated mechanism.
The Cultural Significance of the Goats
In 2002, the goats were named Pyrek and Tyrek by the listeners of Radio Złote Przeboje. “Pyrek” refers to the local term for potato (which is a very popular vegetable in Poznań!), symbolising the agricultural heritage of the region, while “Tyrek” denotes hard work (from the verb “tyrać” which means work hard), reflecting the industrious nature of Poznań’s residents.
Every day at noon, the mechanical goats emerge from the tower to butt heads, accompanied by a trumpet call. This charming spectacle attracts both locals and tourists, becoming a must-see event for visitors to Poznań.
Recent Challenges and Repairs
In May 2024, the goats suffered a significant mechanical failure, causing them to be removed for repairs. The issue involved broken guide rails, which required extensive repairs. After several weeks of restoration, the goats were successfully reinstalled, much to the delight of the public. The repairs were overseen by clockmaker Krzysztof Kurek, who has maintained the mechanism for several years.
The malfunction highlighted the importance of regular maintenance for the ageing mechanism, which has been in place since 1993. The recent repairs have ensured that the charming mechanical goats can continue to perform their daily ritual, maintaining their role as a beloved symbol of Poznań.
Visiting the Goats and the Town Hall
The goats can be seen on the Town Hall tower in Poznań’s Old Market Square, located between Stary Rynek and Różany Targ streets. Nearby attractions include the Museum of the History of Poznań, the whipping post, the Bamberka Well, Działyński Palace, and the charming merchant houses.
The Poznań goats are not just a symbol of the city but a cherished part of its cultural heritage. The daily appearance of the goats at noon, with their charming head-butting display, continues to captivate both residents and tourists. Understanding the history and legend behind these iconic figures enhances the experience of visiting Poznań and appreciating its rich traditions.
