According to a legend, a mermaid swimming in from the sea stopped on the riverbank near the Old Town to rest. She found the place so admirable that she decided to stay. Local fisherman noticed her releasing their fish and tangling their nets and though they intended to trap her they fell in love. Later a rich merchant trapped her and the fisherman hearing her cry for help, rescued her. Since then the mermaid, armed with a sword and shield has been ready to protect the city and its residents.