Upper Market Square

Upper Market Square (Obermarkt) is the heart of the historical center, of which Görlitz is rightfully proud. It is an unusual, elongated space about 250 meters long, which took its final shape in the 19th century on the site of old defensive fortifications. Today, it is one of the most photogenic places in Germany, where the grandeur of the past meets the cozy atmosphere of a modern European city.

Upper Market Square. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Strolling through the square, you will notice how harmoniously lush Baroque and elegant Art Nouveau elements coexist here. The corner building known as the Waage ("Scales") deserves special attention; in the past, it served for the registration and weighing of imported goods. A lively trade in salt and rare spices once bustled along the square, making this site a key economic hub for the region.

Beyond its historical value, Obermarkt serves as a link in a labyrinth of cobbled streets. It impresses with its spaciousness and openness, inviting tourists to take their time studying each facade that holds memories of centuries of prosperity and commercial power.

To check for the latest information on city events or to plan a walking tour of the center, you can contact the tourist office. Upper Market Square is an open urban space, so it is always available for walks. Basic official contact and navigation details are provided in the table below.

Visiting the square is, above all, a visual pleasure. You should definitely examine the facades of the old houses closely, as each one possesses unique decorations. One of the most interesting spots is the "Scales" building, as well as the passage through the covered Brüderstraße, where you can find atmospheric details like small sculptures that complete the city's character.

For lovers of panoramic views, the ideal activity is visiting the Reichenbach Tower. This is the tallest surviving watchtower in the city, rising directly over the square. It’s the perfect moment to take memorable photos of the architectural ensemble, which has preserved its medieval spirit in virtually its original form.

If you enjoy diving into history through details, try to imagine how cloth and dyes were traded here centuries ago. After walking through the Upper Market, the logical next step is to head to the neighboring Lower Market, allowing you to experience the cohesive look of Görlitz and enjoy its unique tranquility.

Reaching this historical site is easy. The most convenient way is to take a train to Görlitz Central Station (Hauptbahnhof Görlitz). From the station, the square is just a 10–15 minute walk away. Your path will lead through Demianiplatz towards the Old Town, gradually immersing you in the atmosphere of historic Europe.

If you prefer public transport, use bus routes No. 30 or No. 32, which will take you as close as possible to the center. You can also order a taxi from anywhere in the city; the ride from the station takes just a few minutes. The city's compactness makes it easy to navigate even without a GPS, simply by following the signs to the historical core.

For those traveling by car, it is important to remember that parking in the historical center itself can be limited. It is recommended to leave your car at the park-and-ride (P+R) lots near the station or use city garages on the outskirts of the old core and then walk to the square. Navigation coordinates: 51.1551822, 14.9871194.

The history of this place dates back to the Middle Ages, although the Upper Market Square acquired its current spacious appearance only in the 19th century after the city walls were demolished. Görlitz was first mentioned in a deed by King Henry IV as early as 1071, and since then, the city's squares have played a central role in its development as a vital trading hub on the route between Erfurt and Breslau.

The Obermarkt held special significance due to the so-called "staple right" (stapelrecht). Merchants passing through the city were obliged to offer their goods for sale right here. The main commodities were salt, spices, and cloth, while woad—a valuable blue dye that brought the city enormous income—was used for dyeing fabrics. All goods had to be registered at the Waage ("Scales") building.

In 1346, Görlitz became part of the influential Six Cities League of Upper Lusatia. This alliance was created to protect trade interests and combat robber knights, allowing the square to remain a safe and prosperous place. Receiving city rights in 1303 finally secured this area's status as the economic heart of the region.

Today's architectural ensemble of the square is the result of centuries of evolution, where the austere Middle Ages gave way to elegant Baroque and were later complemented by Art Nouveau elements. This continuity of styles makes the site a living testament to the wealth and significance of the city in Germany's history.

For a first introduction to Upper Market Square, including a leisurely stroll and photographing the main architectural sites, 30–60 minutes is usually sufficient. This is plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere and examine the details of the ancient facades.

However, if you plan to combine your walk with a visit to the neighboring Lower Market, an ascent of the Reichenbach Tower, or a stop at one of the cozy cafes, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours. This will allow you to immerse yourself in the historical context and feel the spirit of the Old Town without rushing.

Since Upper Market Square is an open public space, it is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can come here early in the morning to catch the soft light on the building facades, or late in the evening when the old houses are beautifully illuminated by street lamps.

According to official data, access to the square is open 24 hours a day from Monday to Sunday. Please note that the shops, cafes, and tourist centers located on the square operate on their own schedules, typically opening at 9:00–10:00 AM and closing in the evening.

The location of this site makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the entire Old Town. The main landmarks are within walking distance, allowing you to get a complete impression of the region's architectural heritage.

Many interesting sites are just a few minutes' walk away, so you can easily plan a rich walking route. Check out the list of nearby attractions: