They’ve become emblematic of the German city of Lippstadt. Three wooden pigs, roped together, that inhabit the pedestrian mall in the city core

When I first met them, more than a decade ago, I thought they were a rather quaint idea. Something mostly to amuse children, they can be pulled down the street. You never know where you might find them.

In my family, we would usually go and look for the pigs before we took our luggage to wherever we were staying. You have to have your priorities straight.

Over the years the pigs have taken on a life of their own. You can buy replicas, and they are branded on tote bags, magnets, children’s clothing and wine bottles. They are the face of Lippstadt to the world.

I don’t remember the pigs before visiting in 2009, but there was a nineteen-year gap between Europe trips when my children were younger. If you are a parent you understand – finances don’t always allow for luxuries like European vacations.

I have taken a lot of photos of the pigs in the past. My wife has purchased framed photos from a Lippstadt photographer. We have some of the branded items the city sells.

Here in this space i have written about the pigs on more than one occasion – and they remain among the most popular posts here, which is why I thought you might like to see them again.

So here are the pigs in May 2024. They still rule the Langestrasse.