Pascha

Did Pascha in Cologne always have this vibrant pink hue? The Pascha, a striking ten-story building, dominates the Cologne skyline. This isn’t just any building. It’s one of the largest brothels in the world. The Pascha first opened its doors in January 1972 under the name “Eros Center”. It was Europe’s first high-rise brothel, a bold statement in the city’s landscape. The city of Cologne wanted to relocate the red-light district from the city center. They offered land on the outskirts for this new venture. The prostitutes initially fought against the move but eventually lost their case. In 1995, the Eros Center faced foreclosure. Under new ownership, it was rebranded as “Pascha”. This marked a turning point in the brothel’s history. Pascha expanded its reach, opening other locations in Salzburg, Munich, and Linz. Inside the Pascha, over 80 employees support the daily operations. Around 120 prostitutes rent rooms, each costing 180 euros per day. This fee covers meals, medical care, and taxes, including Cologne’s “pleasure tax”. The women working at Pascha come from diverse backgrounds, with approximately 30% being German. The Pascha operates around the clock, buzzing with activity. Customers pay a 5 euro entrance fee to access the labyrinthine hallways. Here, they can negotiate directly with the women. The women work independently and set their own prices. The brothel also offers a low-cost floor and a floor specifically for transgender prostitutes. Beyond the main business, Pascha also houses a hotel, a table dance nightclub, several bars, and an exclusive club-style brothel on the top floor. In 2003, a “normal session” cost around 50 euros. The Pascha even offered a unique money-back guarantee for unsatisfied customers. The brothel has also seen its share of incidents. There have been violent attacks and police raids uncovering illegal activities. Even celebrities like Eminem and 50 Cent have been linked to the Pascha, adding to its notoriety. In 2020, the Pascha faced a major challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions on prostitution forced the brothel into bankruptcy. However, like a phoenix from the ashes, it was renovated and reopened in March 2022 under new ownership. The Pascha remains a significant landmark in Cologne, a complex and controversial part of the city’s story.