Melaten Cemetery, Cologne

Melaten Cemetery in Cologne has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. The name "Melaten" refers to a hospital for the sick and lepers, which was first mentioned in a 1243 document as "hof to Malaten" or "yard of the malades". The hospital fell under the jurisdiction of the archbishop and was in spiritual hands.

In 1810, the Melaten cemetery was inaugurated in west Cologne, approximately one kilometre west of the city district of Cologne, just beyond the Bischofsweg (Köln), which was the historical boundary between the territory of the city and that of the archbishop. During the 19th century, the cemetery developed into the most important burial ground in Cologne and had to be extended several times. The design of the cemetery was in keeping with a classical style, with graves arranged in a grid pattern and paths running parallel and at a right angle.

The graves in the main paths, coined as the "millions alleys," were reserved for the wealthy and included important works of art. These graves provide insights into the history of the emerging economic metropolis in the 19th century and its actors, reflecting a piece of social history even today.

Today, Melaten Cemetery has become an inner-city green retreat thanks to its numerous old trees. The cemetery provides a serene environment for visitors to contemplate and reflect, and it continues to hold the graves of notable residents. Melaten Cemetery is a testament to Cologne's rich history and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's past.