In Pforzheim, a unique traffic management system has been introduced, involving apples and horses as traffic signals.
Hanging out with the Swabian TV duo at the new pedestrian crossing in Pforzheim
Let's talk about the latest attraction in Pforzheim - Affle and Pferdle, the belovedSwabian TV figures, have now become the stars of a pedestrian crossing previously occupied by East German Ampelmanns. You might know these characters from the commercial breaks of Süddeutscher Rundfunk, initially silent, but later gained voices with a distinctive Swabian accent and dialect.
Tracing their roots back to Armin Lang’s creation in the 1960s, both characters, later voiced, have been essential components of Baden-Württemberg's culture, even if younger generations may recognize them from various advertising activities rather than the television.
At Leopoldplatz, these delightful Swabian figures now adorn what was previously the city's quirkiest traffic light. The relocated East German Ampelmanns, an unfamiliar mention to us, have shifted to the northern end of Bahnhofstraße, near the Luisenstraße intersection.
Mayor Peter Boch shared his enthusiasm during the traffic light's unveiling, commenting, "It's a breath of fresh air to have Affle and Pferdle in Pforzheim, as they are clearly iconic in Baden-Württemberg's culture." The light brings welcomed variety to our streetscape, he added.
It's worth noting that "Affle" and "Pferdle" are not the only beloved traffic light characters in Germany. The East German cousins, for instance, now reside near Bahnhofstraße, while the Mainzelmännchen can be spotted in Mainz.
Despite being "foreign" compared to the normal, former West German Ampelmanns, the East Germans are as valued in Pforzheim as their Western counterparts. To cross, simply ask for 'green' for Pferdle's appearance, or red for Affle.
Now that you know about the Swabian TV duo's latest adventure, be sure to check it out at Leopoldplatz the next time you're in Pforzheim!
Incorporating Affle and Pferdle's new pedestrian crossing into everyday life, one might reflect on the charming blend of home-and-garden decor and lifestyle in Pforzheim, now graced by these cherished Swabian TV figures. As for home improvements, these delightful characters could even inspire creative home-and-garden renovations, like Ampelmann-themed garden ornaments or Swabian-dialect-themed room designs, symbolizing the rich culture of the region.
