Highlight • Monument
Cycling
4.8
(57)
The Schweinehirte Sculpture Rest Area is a distinctive urban landmark in Bremen-Mitte, Germany, known officially as the "Schweinehirt und seine Herde" (Pig Shepherd and his Herd) bronze sculpture group. Located at the end of the historic Sögestraße, this man-made monument stands at an elevation of approximately 47 metres above sea level, serving as a popular gathering point within the city center. It beautifully commemorates Bremen's past, specifically the street's historical use for driving pigs.
Visitors are particularly drawn to the…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Spandauer Forst
Tips
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Schweinehirte Rest Area
4.6
(356)
1,486
riders
71.0km
04:18
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(141)
673
riders
130km
07:35
310m
310m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(97)
419
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 50 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 13 March
13°C
6°C
54 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Yes, the Schweinehirte Sculpture is located in a public urban area, making it generally dog-friendly. Dogs on a leash are welcome to accompany their owners during a visit. However, please be mindful of other visitors, especially children who interact with the sculpture, and ensure your dog is well-behaved. There are no specific dog trails directly at the sculpture, but the surrounding city streets are suitable for walks with your canine companion.
As the sculpture is located in Bremen's city center, direct parking at the monument is not available. However, several public parking garages are within a short walking distance. Options like the Parkhaus Mitte or Parkhaus Katharinenkloster are convenient choices, typically just a few minutes' walk from Sögestraße. Be aware that parking in the city center can be busy, especially during peak hours or weekends.
The Schweinehirte Sculpture is an urban landmark, so it doesn't offer natural viewpoints in the traditional sense. However, its location at the end of Sögestraße provides a vibrant street-level view of Bremen's bustling pedestrian zone. For scenic views of the city, you might consider visiting the St. Petri Dom (Bremen Cathedral) nearby, which offers tower climbs for panoramic vistas of the city, including parts of the historic center.
The Schweinehirte Sculpture is an excellent starting point for family-friendly urban explorations. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the pedestrian zone of Sögestraße, which leads directly to the sculpture. From there, it's a short walk to the historic Marktplatz (Market Square), where you can see the Bremen Roland statue and the Town Hall. The Böttcherstraße, a unique art nouveau street, is also very close and offers an interesting walk for all ages. These routes are flat and paved, suitable for strollers.
Yes, the area around the Schweinehirte Sculpture is highly accessible. It is located in a pedestrian zone with flat, paved surfaces, making it easy to navigate with wheelchairs and strollers. There are no stairs or significant obstacles directly at the sculpture, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
As a popular urban landmark in Bremen's city center, the Schweinehirte Sculpture can attract a fair number of visitors, especially on weekends, during public holidays, and in the warmer months. It's a common meeting point and a favorite spot for families. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or later in the evening.
Being in the heart of Bremen, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a very short walk of the Schweinehirte Sculpture. Along Sögestraße and in the surrounding streets, you'll find a wide variety of options, from cozy cafes perfect for a coffee and cake to traditional German pubs and international eateries. The Marktplatz area, just a few steps away, also offers many choices for refreshments and meals.
While the Schweinehirte Sculpture itself is not part of a traditional hiking trail, it can be easily incorporated into various circular urban walking routes. Many visitors enjoy starting their city tour here, then walking through the historic center, perhaps towards the Schlachte Embankment along the Weser River, or exploring the charming Schnoor Quarter, before looping back. These are more urban strolls than hikes, offering a great way to see Bremen's highlights.
The sculpture, created by Peter Lehmann in 1974, commemorates the historical significance of Sögestraße, the street where it is located. 'Sögestraße' literally translates to 'sow street' or 'pig street,' as it was historically a route used for driving pigs through the city. The 'Pig Shepherd and his Herd' sculpture serves as a charming reminder of Bremen's agricultural past and its urban development.
Absolutely! The Schweinehirte Sculpture is an urban attraction that can be enjoyed year-round. In winter, especially during the Christmas season, the surrounding city center and Sögestraße are often beautifully decorated, adding a festive atmosphere to your visit. While the weather might be colder, the sculpture remains accessible and offers a unique charm against a winter backdrop.
As the Schweinehirte Sculpture is located in a bustling urban environment in Bremen's city center, you won't typically encounter traditional wildlife. Instead, you'll observe plenty of city life, including various bird species common to urban areas, and of course, the bronze pigs and their shepherd! For natural wildlife, you would need to venture to parks or the countryside outside the city center.