Poznań goats

The Poznań Goats are one of the most recognizable tourist attractions in Poznań, located on the town hall tower, where every day at 12:00 two mechanical goats butt heads. The history of the goats dates back to the 16th century, when during the renovation of the town hall, a mechanism commissioned from locksmith Bartłomiej Wolf was created to add charm to the new clock. The clock was installed in 1551, but after a lightning strike in 1675, both the clock and the goats were destroyed. Another mechanism was reconstructed between 1910 and 1913, but it was destroyed during World War II. The goats were restored in 1954, and their current version, funded by businessman Marian Marcinkowski, has been in operation since June 12, 1993. The new mechanism, created by engineer Stefan Krajewski, differs from the original in the way the goats butt heads and in its construction. The goats are made of aluminum sheet metal using modern engineering solutions, ensuring smooth movement and adjustable speed. Legends associated with the goats tell of a young kitchen helper named Pietrek who accidentally burned the dish for a great feast and, in a panic, snatched goats from a pasture. Their unexpected behavior on the tower amused the townspeople and saved him from punishment. The goats have become a symbol of Poznań, attracting tourists and serving as an important element of local culture. Every day, when the town hall bell rings, they draw crowds of people, proving their enduring popularity and special place in the hearts of Poznań residents.