The Roland statue of Stendal, known locally as the Stendaler Roland, is a striking emblem of the town of Stendal in Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany. Erected in 1525, this imposing figure stands proudly on the Stendal marketplace, right in front of the town hall's court arbor. The Roland statue, a potent symbol of municipal rights and freedom, has become an iconic landmark that attracts visitors from near and far.
The Roland statues, scattered across various towns in Germany, serve as powerful symbols of city rights, high jurisdiction, and market freedom. The Roland statue of Stendal is no exception. It represents the legendary military leader Roland, who is celebrated in songs and epics, and is purportedly the nephew of Charlemagne. This embodiment of medieval chivalry and justice stands as a testament to the historical significance of civic autonomy and the rule of law.
The Roland statue of Stendal is an impressive freestanding figure made from sandstone, measuring a total height of 7.80 meters, including its 1.80-meter-high octagonal pedestal. The statue itself is 6 meters tall, depicting Roland as a mustachioed knight clad in plate armor adorned with embossed ridges. His armor includes a long, fluted cuirass, arm and leg guards, shoulder pieces, and a gorget. In his right hand, Roland wields an iron sword with a once-gilded pommel and grip, while his left hand holds a shield emblazoned with the town's coat of arms, featuring a Brandenburg eagle atop two jagged squares (stones).
Roland's hair is encircled by a band resembling a padded fabric strip, adorned with an iron pine branch on the right side. This detailed craftsmanship adds to the statue's majestic appearance, making it a remarkable piece of Renaissance artistry.
Behind the Roland statue, a rectangular, ornamented column provides support. This column is richly decorated with figures on both the front and back. At the front, a monkey squats at the base, gazing into a mirror, a detail that can also be seen in a drawing from 1753 by Beckmann. Above this monkey figure, a bearded figure stands on a palmette console, wearing a short tunic and carrying a baluster or vase on its head. Some interpret this figure as a craftsman, possibly the master who created the Roland statue, depicted in his working attire.
On the back of the column, a kneeling man with a jester's cap is depicted at the bottom. Above him is a baluster-like relief, topped by a fool figure holding a bagpipe in one hand and the Stendal town coat of arms in the other. The people of Stendal recognize this figure as Till Eulenspiegel, a legendary trickster from German folklore.
In 1905, the Roland statue was meticulously measured, revealing that its small finger is longer than a large man's hand. The current replica of the statue, slightly smaller than the original, was created by sculptors from VEB Denkmalpflege Magdeburg and installed in September 1974. The original statue has undergone several restorations over the centuries, including significant repairs in 1837, 1926, 1938, and 1955. In 1962, the foundation was renewed to prevent tilting caused by traffic vibrations. The statue was also damaged during the Quimburga hurricane in 1972, leading to further restoration efforts.
The Roland statue of Stendal is steeped in local legends and folklore. One such tale involves the trickster Till Eulenspiegel, who once worked as a wool weaver's apprentice in Stendal. He took his master's instructions literally, causing much mischief and hilarity. Another legend tells of the devil attempting to play a trick on the townspeople by suggesting they make the Roland statue longer. The clever townspeople thwarted the devil's plan, leading to a humorous resolution that has been passed down through generations.
The Roland statue has left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of Stendal. It has inspired poems, stories, and even an oratorio performed during the III. Arbeiterfestspiele in 1961. The statue's image has been featured on postage stamps, further cementing its status as a beloved symbol of Stendal's rich history and heritage. The annual Rolandfest, held in June, celebrates the town's connection to this iconic figure, drawing visitors and locals alike to partake in the festivities.
In conclusion, the Roland statue of Stendal is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of the town's enduring spirit and commitment to justice and freedom. Its intricate details, fascinating legends, and cultural significance make it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the charming town of Stendal in Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany.
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