Gedenksäule für Menschen, die an den Folgen von AIDS gestorben sind

The Memorial Column for those who died from AIDS-related causes stands serenely on Lichhof in Cologne's historic old town, adjacent to St. Maria im Kapitol church. This secluded square, framed by ancient arches and narrow alleys, fosters an atmosphere of quiet contemplation away from the city's bustle. Crafted from roughly hewn stone, the stele bears a poignant haiku by poet Gitta Benasseni: "See the fire too, not just the falling leaves, when summer departs." It honors the deceased and urges awareness against stigma and oblivion.

As a cultural monument, the column offers no typical amenities but serves as a space for reflection and remembrance. Occasional events, such as wreath-laying ceremonies tied to Christopher Street Day or World AIDS Day, bring visitors together. People can read its multilingual inscription and absorb the stone's symbolism of loss, resilience, and shared memory. Complementing the site's mournful sculpture, Lichhof forms an ensemble of silence and introspection, perfect for those seeking to connect with history and humanity in a profound way.