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Köln

Friedhof Melaten

Attractions and Places To See around Friedhof Melaten - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Friedhof Melaten include a unique blend of historical significance, artistic monuments, and natural beauty. This central and largest cemetery in Cologne, established in 1810, functions as a park-like oasis. It narrates the social and art history of Cologne, offering insights into its development and diverse architectural styles. The grounds also serve as a protected landscape area, providing a habitat for various wildlife.

Best attractions and places to see around Friedhof Melaten

  • The most popular attractions is Melaten Cemetery, a historical site that is Cologne's central cemetery. Designated a historical monument, it is a popular destination due to the many prominent figures buried there and its historical significance.
  • Another must-see spot is Dirk Bach Memorial Grave, a man-made monument. This grave belongs to the Cologne comedian and actor Dirk Bach and is known for its colorful design, featuring a pink bench donated by Hella von Sinnen.
  • Visitors also love Grim Reaper statue, Melaten Cemetery, a man-made monument. This visually impactful statue symbolizes death, holding an hourglass, and is one of the most famous characters within the cemetery.
  • Friedhof Melaten is known for its historical sites, diverse man-made monuments, and natural features. Visitors can explore various architectural styles, prominent graves, and ancient trees within its park-like environment.
  • The attractions around Friedhof Melaten are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 630 photos and more than 250 upvotes.

Last updated: May 27, 2026

Melaten Cemetery

Highlight • Historical Site

Melaten Cemetery is Cologne's central cemetery. The name Melaten is based on the French word for sickness, "malade." From the 12th century onward, a leper colony, which included the Melaten estate, was located on the grounds outside the city gates. Designated a historical monument in 1980, Melaten Cemetery is now a popular destination, primarily due to the many prominent figures buried there.

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Dirk Bach Memorial Grave

Highlight • Monument

The Cologne comedian and actor Dirk Bach (who died in 2012) probably has one of the most colorful graves in Melaten Cemetery. His husband has been buried next to him since 2019. A pink bench, donated by Hella von Sinnen, stands at his grave.

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Millowitsch Family Grave, Melaten Cemetery

Highlight • Historical Site

What would Cologne folk art be without the Millowitsch family, with its perhaps most prominent member, Willy (1909–1999)? The gravestone is deliberately very simple and bears only the family name. The names and dates of the family members buried here are legible on the three-tiered front border.

“Now, Lord, you are releasing your servant in peace, according to your word…” (Luke 2:29; the so-called “Song of Simeon”).

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The Grim Reaper is one of the most famous characters in the Melatenfriedhof. He looks scary, symbolizes death, carries an hourglass and originally also a scythe. However, this has already been stolen several times.

The grave is sponsored by the stonemason family Steinnus (stonemasons in Cologne since 1835).

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Grave of Dr. Guido Westerwelle

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It's always interesting how people bury.

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April 19, 2026, Dirk Bach Memorial Grave

Dirk Bach was originally buried elsewhere and reburied two weeks later. Now he lies next to a general from the Napoleonic Wars, whose biography he admired. And of course, next to his partner.

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Guido Westerwelle lived in Cologne-Braunsfeld, among other places. He contracted leukemia and died after a long battle with the disease on March 18, 2016, at the University Hospital of Cologne in Lindenthal. Westerwelle's grave is located on the so-called "Millionaires' Avenue." The bronze sculpture comes from Westerwelle's private garden.

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⚰️The Grim Reaper: the face of death in Melaten Cemetery⚰️⛪️💀- (from the time of the French occupation, from the term "malade" - sick)- with a dark past: 💀Built in the Middle Ages to relocate lepers from the city. This spooky element can still be experienced today💀🦴 - when you suddenly find yourself face to face with the Grim Reaper⚰️. The eerie sculpture is located on the western main path between sections 76 B and 82 on the grave of the merchant Johann Müllemeister. The Grim Reaper is undoubtedly the most famous figure in Cologne's Melaten Cemetery⚰️⛪️. Even today, perhaps no one could better personify death, that is, represent it in a single person, than this figure. For some, it is frightening; for others, fascinating. The skull has shrouded its body, which is in reality only a human skeleton, in a cloak. Its left leg protrudes. It is merely a bone.

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Dirk Bach was an actor, presenter, and comedian.

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250 years of German and city history. There are countless, magnificent graves of Cologne's famous families and important individuals. All in an enchanted park landscape. In addition to the graves, you can also observe a diverse bird life, including many feral parrots.

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The grave is decorated with a bust of Bacchus by the artist Lüpertz, who was a friend of the deceased. Joy of life!

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The tombstone was sponsored by a family of stonemasons from Cologne who buried their son "Fröschlein" here, who died very young. The side tombstone is also decorated with a stone frog. Touching.

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Westerwelle's grave is decorated with a bust of Bacchus by the famous artist Markus Lüpertz, who was a friend of Westerwelle. Joy of life beyond death.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical and artistic features can I explore at Friedhof Melaten?

Friedhof Melaten is rich in history and art. You can walk along the "Avenue of Millions" (Millionenallee), which features elaborate gravestones and mausoleums reflecting Cologne's economic growth and 19th-century artistic styles. The cemetery also showcases diverse architectural styles, including Neoclassicism, Neo-Gothic, and Art Nouveau, across its many monuments. Don't miss the visually impactful Grim Reaper statue, a famous symbol within the cemetery.

Are there any notable graves of famous personalities at Melaten Cemetery?

Yes, Friedhof Melaten is the final resting place for many significant figures. You can visit the colorful Dirk Bach Memorial Grave, known for its pink bench. Another important site is the simple yet historically rich Millowitsch Family Grave, honoring the influential Willy Millowitsch. Other notable interments include members of the Farina family (creators of Eau de Cologne) and politicians like Dr. Guido Westerwelle.

What kind of natural environment can I expect at Friedhof Melaten?

Friedhof Melaten offers a serene, park-like ambiance with a multitude of ancient trees, including plane trees, maples, and birch trees. It functions as a vital green space and a protected landscape area in Cologne, providing a habitat for over forty species of birds, as well as various insects, bats, and squirrels. It's a peaceful oasis perfect for a contemplative stroll.

Are there guided tours available for Friedhof Melaten?

Yes, regular guided tours are available at Friedhof Melaten. These tours offer fascinating insights into the historical figures, significant graves, and the unique flora and fauna of the cemetery. Themed tours focusing on prominent personalities or the natural environment are also offered, deepening visitors' understanding of its role in Cologne's history.

How can I reach Friedhof Melaten using public transport?

Friedhof Melaten is well-connected by public transport in Cologne. You can typically reach it via tram or bus services, with stops conveniently located near the cemetery entrances. For the most current and detailed public transport information, it's best to check local transport schedules.

Is Friedhof Melaten accessible for visitors with wheelchairs?

While the cemetery is a large outdoor space, many of its main pathways are generally accessible. The Millowitsch Family Grave, for example, is noted as wheelchair accessible. However, some older or less-maintained paths might be uneven. It's advisable to check specific route conditions if you plan to explore less-trafficked areas.

What are the opening hours for Friedhof Melaten?

Friedhof Melaten generally has extensive opening hours, typically from early morning until dusk, though these can vary seasonally. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on opening and closing times, it is recommended to consult the official website of the City of Cologne or local tourism resources like cologne-tourism.com.

Are there any family-friendly activities or areas near Friedhof Melaten?

While Friedhof Melaten itself is a cemetery, its park-like environment can be suitable for quiet family walks. For more active family-friendly options, the surrounding Lindenthal district offers parks and playgrounds. The cemetery's historical and natural aspects can also be engaging for older children interested in history or nature.

Can I find places to eat or drink near Friedhof Melaten?

Yes, there are cafes, pubs, and restaurants within walking distance of Friedhof Melaten, particularly in the surrounding Lindenthal district. You'll find various options to grab a coffee, a meal, or a drink before or after your visit to the cemetery.

What outdoor activities or routes are available near Friedhof Melaten?

Beyond exploring the cemetery itself, you can find various outdoor activities nearby. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the "Path Along Westfriedhof – Brauweiler Abbey loop" or the "Chorbusch Forest Trail – Knechtsteden Abbey loop." Hikers can enjoy easy routes such as the "Historic Buildings in Cologne – Klettenbergpark Pond loop." You can find more details on these and other routes in the Cycling around Friedhof Melaten or Waterfall hikes around Friedhof Melaten guides.

What is the best time of year to visit Friedhof Melaten?

Friedhof Melaten is beautiful year-round, but many visitors find spring and autumn particularly appealing. In spring, the trees and flowers are in bloom, adding vibrant color. In autumn, the ancient trees display stunning foliage. The park-like setting makes it a pleasant visit during milder weather, though it offers a unique, contemplative atmosphere even in winter.

Is it possible to park near Friedhof Melaten?

Parking options are available near Friedhof Melaten, including street parking in the surrounding residential areas of Lindenthal. However, availability can vary, especially during peak times. It's advisable to look for designated parking zones or consider public transport for convenience.

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