Friedenswald, Cologne

Friedenswald, meaning “Peace Forest,” is a landscaped park beside the Forest Botanical Garden. It was created between 1979 and 1981 on former farmland as a symbol of international understanding. Trees and shrubs represent 141 countries that had diplomatic relations with West Germany in 1980. Signs show each country’s name, flag and associated plant species.

The plantings are grouped broadly by continent around large lawns and circular walking paths. Species typical of temperate countries were used where possible, while tropical and subtropical nations are represented by hardy symbolic plants. The country signs also preserve a record of the political geography of 1980, before several modern states had gained independence or changed their names.

The neighbouring botanical garden adds several historical and natural features. The Rhododendron Ravine occupies the site of a former military fortification; rubble from the structure was incorporated into a rock garden after the fort was demolished. Visitors may also encounter free-roaming peacocks among collections of redwoods, Japanese flowering trees, bamboo, heather and peonies. Entry is free, but dogs are not permitted inside the botanical garden, and barbecues are prohibited.