The park serves as a permanent open-air exhibition space for contemporary sculpture that changes every two years.
The landscape architecture dates back to the 19th century when it was commissioned by the Freiherren von Fürstenberg.
Despite the destruction of the original Stammheim Castle during Allied bombing raids in 1944, the park's structural layout and old tree population survived.
The park is maintained by the Bürgerverein Köln-Stammheim e.V., a civic association rather than a municipal department.
It hosts one of the largest privately initiated and managed sculpture exhibitions in the region.
The park features a diverse arboretum with mature oaks, beeches, and rare imported tree species from the original landscape design.
Schlosspark Stammheim is a historic English-style landscape garden located on the right bank of the Rhine in Cologne. It is renowned for its long-running 'Skulpturenpark' exhibition, which features contemporary art installations integrated into the mature forest and meadow landscape. The park covers approximately 10 hectares and features a historic population of exotic trees, including a rare cedar. Originally designed as the garden for the former Stammheim Castle, the park was heavily damaged during World War II but later restored. Today, the park serves as an open-air gallery, with a rotating selection of sculptures updated every two years. The park is managed by a local civic association dedicated to preserving its artistic and botanical heritage.
The main meadow area where the juxtaposition of large-scale contemporary sculptures against the backdrop of ancient trees is most pronounced.
Bring a camera, as the interplay between the contemporary sculptures and the natural forest backdrop changes significantly with the lighting.
Wear waterproof footwear if visiting after rainfall, as some paths are unpaved and can become muddy.
Plan for a leisurely walk, as the park is designed for slow exploration of its hidden corners.
Do not attempt to touch or climb the sculptures, as many are fragile or part of sensitive site-specific installations.
Stay on marked paths to protect the lawn areas and the integrity of the artwork sites.
