One of the most-photographed statues in Germany’s famous Heidelburg Castle is not that of any celebrated member of the nobility, but of an Italian dwarf with a drink problem.
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Officially born Pankert Clemens in Italy’s South Tyrol, he made his way to Heidelberg where he sought work at the castle around 1720, and on seeing his odd stature and behaviour, Prince Karl Philip of the Palatine appointed him Court Jester and Keeper of the Tun – then, and still now, the world’s biggest wine barrel.
It’s said that in his later years he lived on nothing but wine, drinking five to 10 litres a day
Clemens performed at countless royal events at the castle, and was soon dubbed “Perkeo” after forever replying “perché no?” (Italian for “why not?”) whenever he was asked if he wanted another glass of wine.
It’s said that in his later years he lived on nothing but wine, drinking an alleged five to 10 litres or more a day .
When he fell ill close to his 80th birthday, the court doctor ordered him off the wine for at least a week, and in that time to drink only water.
A protesting Perkeo reluctantly agreed – and died the next day.
