Under the shadows of the majestic Cologne Cathedral, the old city hides a tale of love, woes, and rekindled romance. The story dates back to the 17th century during the era of the Thirty Years’ War. It tells the tale of a young man named Jan von Werth. A farmer’s son, he fell in love with a wealthy maiden, Griet. Despite his genuine feelings, Griet rejected him, believing that a simple farmer’s son would offer her nothing but poverty. Dismayed by her rejection, Jan enlisted in the army and soon proved himself an outstanding soldier. His courage and valor led him to rapid promotions, quickly rising to the rank of a General. After years of war and being away, he returned to Cologne, no longer a humble farmer’s boy but a victorious General. Upon his return, he encountered Griet once more, now an old maid. Seeing her former suitor’s success, Griet regretted her initial rejection, mourning her lost opportunity of being his wife. This story is commemorated by the equestrian statue of Jan von Werth at the Altermarkt, where it stands as a symbol of this historical romance. The legend states that each year, during the autumn Kermesse, the ghost of Griet descends from the church bell tower and asks for Jan’s forgiveness, which in turn, he always grants.