Back in 2011, “Nandolino” arrived at Pfaffenteich as a lucky dragon – at that time as a large, green wooden sculpture. It was restored once, then stood in this beautiful spot until 2022. Then it was time to say goodbye. The green dragon had become rotten and needed to be replaced. Since September 24, 2025, he has been back—as stately and friendly as ever and made of durable material. Thank you to all the donors and, of course, the artist, who also donated his work!

Welcome back, Nandolino!

Shiny and large with teeth so bright,
yet friendly too, a joyful sight.
This dragon funny, full of cheer,
was long missed from the pond so near.

From wood he rose, in colors bold,
a cheerful face for young and old.
Since 2011 he took his stand,
while dragon boats raced o’er the land.

But soon he left, his time was done,
restoration had begun.
In 2016 he came once more,
to guard the pond, his old-time shore.

Mascot, photo, fearless guard,
a multi-talent, loved, starred.
Yet years went by, his strength grew thin,
his tail decayed, his back broke in.

The people grieved, they understood,
he had to leave for his own good.
To cure, renew, to rise again,
Kallweit set out with brush and pen.

He dreamed, he sketched, his vision strong:
a dragon built to last so long.
Of bronze and stone, both firm and true,
a sturdy beast the world could view.

Three years passed with empty shore,
no dragon watched the waves no more.
But then at last, with children’s song,
Nandolino returned where he belonged.

Now proud he stands by Schwerin’s stream,
a guardian cast from artist’s dream.
At just one glance, all hearts can see:
with him returned our joy, our glee.