Right here, in Cologne’s Neustadt, lies an urban oasis. This is the Stadtgarten. Cologne’s first modern park invites you to explore its rich history and vibrant present.
Did you know the Stadtgarten began as a decorative garden? It was established in 1827 and 1828. This was on the grounds outside the city wall. The Stadtgarten even had a provincial tree nursery. Cologne’s garden director, Jakob Greiß, designed it.
In 1857, exotic trees from the Botanical Garden were moved here. This happened when the Centralbahnhof, the main train station, was built. The Stadtgarten then had to shrink when the railway line was relocated. It went from 11 to 6 hectares between 1888 and 1890. Adolf Kowallek redesigned the park. He was a student of Johann Heinrich Gustav Meyer.
Today, the Stadtgarten is more than just greenery. It’s a cultural hub. The Stadtgarten Konzerthaus is a major draw. The “Initiative Kölner Jazz Haus e. V.” founded it in 1986. It has a concert hall, a live club called JAKI, and a café-restaurant. A beer garden and outdoor restaurant add to its appeal.
The Stadtgarten hosts over 400 events yearly. You can enjoy concerts, contemporary literature, and discussions. Jazz and new improvisation music are its main focus. Kornelia Vossebein took over from Reiner Michalke as program director in 2022.
Since 2006, a Christmas market has been held here. It takes place next to the Konzerthaus and in the garden restaurant. Unlike other Cologne Christmas markets, the vendors change weekly.
The “Pro Stadtgarten e. V.” supports the park. This association works to restore the park to its historical appearance. They partner with the City of Cologne. The Stadtgarten restaurant’s operators and local business people are also part of it.
Klangskulpturen are found in the Stadtgarten, thanks to the association. You can take Klangspaziergänge or sound walks.
The Stadtgarten’s beer garden is expansive. In the warm months, you can dine under the tall trees. Enjoy a Kölsch beer with friends or colleagues in this idyllic spot.
The Stadtgarten restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options. It seats up to 80 diners. Reservations are recommended.
The JAKI club hosts many musical styles. You can find jazz, hip-hop, soul, electro, and reggae. “Jazz at JAKI” revives the old New York jazz club style.
The Stadtgarten’s location is framed by Gilbachstraße, Spichernstraße, and Venloer Straße. It is near the Belgian Quarter.
Take a stroll through the Stadtgarten. You will see around 50 species of trees and shrubs. Some are exotic. It’s a place for recreation and relaxation.
The Stadtgarten continues to evolve. It remains a beloved green space and cultural venue in Cologne. This is where history, nature, and music come together.