Throughout Nördlingen, you'll find all sorts of pigs. Some are painted in vibrant colors, others are costumed, and some are naturally pig-pink.

The story behind it is as follows:

In 1440, Count Hans of Oettingen planned a night attack on the free imperial city of Nördlingen. To do this, he bribed the guards at the Löpsinger Gate, who left the gate ajar to facilitate the invaders' entry.

Tragedy was averted by a curious coincidence: a woman, sent to fetch beer for her husband, saw a pig rubbing itself against the gate, which was only latch on, not closed. She shouted, "So, G'sell, so!" ("Oh, friend, this isn't right!") alerting the neighbors, who surrounded the treacherous guards and prevented the attack.

Although the legend is not proven, historical records confirm that two guards were executed for treason in 1440.

As a form of commemoration, an annual service called "Saupredigt" (Pig Sermon) was instituted, held until the 18th century in memory of the event.

And the tradition remains alive to this day: the night watchman atop the tower of St. George's Church (the famous "Daniel," 90 meters high) chants "So, G'sell, so!" between 10 pm and midnight, every half hour, creating a sonic link between past and present.

In 2010, an artistic action marked the city: 220 pig sculptures were positioned in the center of Nördlingen, mainly near the Daniel tower, a vibrant visual installation that brought joy to residents and visitors.