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All Germany Olbernhau Olbernhauer Reiterlein (Little Rider of Olbernhau)
AO Edited

Olbernhauer Reiterlein (Little Rider of Olbernhau)

Created in 1935 as a small gift for those who donated to a charity drive, this little wooden soldier became the symbol of a German town.

Olbernhau, Germany

Added By
Herman Purrmann the German
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  Aagnverglaser / CC BY-SA 4.0
  Aagnverglaser / CC BY-SA 4.0
Olbernhauer Reiterlein   Aagnverglaser / CC BY-SA 4.0
  Herman Purrmann the German / Atlas Obscura User
  Herman Purrmann the German / Atlas Obscura User
  Herman Purrmann the German / Atlas Obscura User
  Herman Purrmann the German / Atlas Obscura User
  Herman Purrmann the German / Atlas Obscura User
  Herman Purrmann the German / Atlas Obscura User
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About

The Olbernhauer Reiterlein (Little Rider of Olbernhau) is an iconic wooden figure from Olbernhau, Germany, that serves as the town's beloved symbol. Created in 1935 as a small, 3.5-centimeter ornament for the Winterhilfswerk charity drive, it was given as a thank-you to those who donated. It became a national icon, with over 12 million figures distributed across Germany that year.

Its popularity led to the creation of a larger, 2.9-meter wooden version a year later, which has since become a centerpiece in Olbernhau’s Advent and Christmas markets, displayed alongside nutcrackers and other Erzgebirge wooden figures.

In addition to its winter appearances, the Reiterlein also features in a seasonal exhibit, the Olbernhauer Sommer-Reiterlein, from Easter to October. A year-round installation includes unique interpretations of the rider, crafted by various local artisans. These displays honor the area’s rich woodworking heritage, although the figures are clearly marked as decorative, not for climbing or play.

Related Tags

Statues Charities Woodwork Christmas Toys

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It is right next to the City Museum of Olbernhau. There is also a scavenger hunt to find small versions of the rider all over town.

Community Contributors

Added By

Herman Purrmann the German

Edited By

Michelle Cassidy

  • Michelle Cassidy

Published

December 3, 2024

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  • https://www.olbernhau.de/en/olbernhauer-reiterlein-1
  • https://www.olbernhau.de/en/olbernhauer-reiterlein
Olbernhauer Reiterlein (Little Rider of Olbernhau)
7 Markt
Olbernhau, 09526
Germany
50.66099, 13.335001
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