Cologne unveils new square named after Dirk Bach
In the heart of Cologne, Germany, a new landmark has been established to honour the memory of a beloved local figure. The square, located near the renowned Schauspielhaus, has been officially named after the late actor and comedian, Dirk Bach.
Despite ongoing construction, the public's access to the square remains unaffected, as appropriate signs have been installed to guide visitors. The decision to name the square after Bach was made posthumously by the city council, in recognition of his significant contributions to theatre and entertainment.
Bach, who was part of the Schauspielhaus ensemble and a native of Cologne, was known for his work as the "Jungle Camp" moderator, as well as his theater and voice acting roles. His passing in 2012 left a void in the German entertainment industry, and the naming of the square is a posthumous honour that reflects the city's appreciation for his talent and impact.
The naming of the square, however, was not without controversy. A legal dispute between the city council and the Cologne-Innenstadt district council arose over who had the right to name the square. This dispute did not affect the city's decision to install signs for the square, nor did it delay the official naming. In January, the Higher Administrative Court of Münster ruled in the second instance that the district council may name the square.
Despite the resolution of the legal dispute, the exact nature and details of the disagreement remain unclear. As more precise and recent sources become available, further insights into this matter may be revealed.
For now, the square named after Dirk Bach remains a construction site, eagerly awaiting its official opening to the public. The city spokesperson announced the news of the square's naming to dpa, marking a significant milestone in honouring the legacy of a beloved Cologne native.
Celebrities and the entertainment industry mourned the loss of Dirk Bach upon his passing in 2012, with the city of Cologne choosing to honor his contributions by naming a square after him. The square, located near the Schauspielhaus, is currently under construction, but will open to the public following its completion.
