Deep within Cologne lies a green oasis. This is Carl-Duisberg-Park. It began as a small cafeteria garden next to the Bayer factory. Bayer acquired the Ultramarin paint factory from Carl Leverkus in 1891. Today, let’s explore its history.
The park’s first layout occurred between 1903 and 1913. This coincided with the construction of the administration building. It was initially named Kaiser-Wilhelm-Park in 1913. The design featured curved paths and open spaces. Lawns and diverse trees defined the landscape. Woodland areas screened the park from the Flittard industrial plant to the south.
Carl Duisberg significantly enhanced the park in the 1920s. His donations led to the addition of art and structures. The Flora temple emerged in 1921. Artist Georg Klimsch designed it. The Apollo temple at Versailles served as his model. Figures and stone benches adorned the temple. It stood opposite the cafeteria on a small rise.
The Caritas fountain by Professor Hugo Lederer followed in 1923. It was placed behind the cafeteria. Duisberg’s management villa was constructed to the west. This included a large garden. The Japanese Garden and other formal areas were developed here.
After World War II, the park suffered greatly. Restoration happened gradually. Expansion occurred in 1951 to the south. Parts of the Flittard plant became part of the park. This gave it its north-south orientation. A football field was added. Gardening production areas were also established.
Further changes took place in 1963. The Bayer skyscraper was built on the Japanese Garden’s site. The Japanese Garden was moved southward. Sculptures from Duisberg’s garden were erected. These included the huntresses and the fawn fountain.
In 1988, the former horticultural area joined the park. This extended it west to the plant’s edge. This change resulted from BayCom’s construction. The U road shifted to the plant’s western edge. This gave the park its present size.
The new areas featured BayCom. They also included a car park for the Japanese Garden. Lawns and shrubbery were added. Access structures were built.
The last major construction was the new corporate headquarters in 2000. It sits on the old Duisberg villa site. The building was integrated into the park design.
The park retains this form today. The Carl Duisberg swimming pool closed. It became a visitor reception area. However, the fencing remains.
The Carl-Duisberg-Park stands as a testament to transformation. It blends industrial history and natural beauty. From its humble beginnings to its current state, the park offers a unique experience. It is a place where art, nature, and history converge. Take a moment to appreciate this unique space in Cologne.