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Ampelmännchen

Ampelmännchen refers to the pedestrian traffic signal figures used in East Germany, especially in Berlin. They were designed by Karl Peglau in 1961 to improve safety and comprehension of crossing signals. The system's two figures used color-coded signals: the green 'go' figure, often shown wearing a hat and in a walking pose, and the red 'stop' figure, standing with an outstretched arm to indicate prohibition. The designs emphasize simple, human silhouettes intended to be understood regardless of language or literacy.

After the German reunification, many East German signals were replaced by West German designs, but the Ampelmännchen

Today, the Ampelmännchen are recognized for their historical and cultural significance as well as their original

remained
in
widespread
use
in
Berlin
and
other
parts
of
the
former
East
Germany
due
to
strong
public
attachment.
They
have
since
become
a
cultural
symbol
of
Ostalgie
and
East
German
heritage,
appearing
on
souvenirs,
signage,
and
media,
and
are
celebrated
as
a
distinctive
element
of
urban
design.
function
in
traffic
safety.
They
demonstrate
how
design
elements
can
transcend
their
initial
purpose
to
become
enduring
symbols.