Odonien

The rusting steel dinosaur towers over Odonien, as if it were guarding the town. But it’s really just showing you the way to a truly unique and authentic experience. Whether it’s art in an open-air studio, a legendary festival, experimental music, theater, comedy, open-air cinema, a sculpture park, a flea market, or a party venue—Odonien has it all. Come on in!

A place full of surprises

At first glance, it looks like a junkyard, but upon closer inspection, Odonien reveals itself to be an escapist destination. With sculptures made from scrap metal, found objects, or industrial remnants; metal-hammered mannequins; warehouse-like spaces; small industrial halls; and decommissioned buses.

This atmosphere alone makes a visit worthwhile. In a setting that’s both unique and quintessentially Cologne, worlds and people of all kinds come together here. Because every jeck is different. That’s what makes the whole experience so laid-back—and exciting, of course. By the way: Have you ever used the restroom inside a tiger cage? Micro-adventures like this await you in Odonien—and promise unforgettable images in your mind.

Experimental, legendary, off-the-wall

If you ask Odonians and their visitors, “What’s so special about Odonien?” they’ll say: the quirky aesthetic of the venue—the variety of events and happenings. Because, according to Odo Rumpf, “anything that fits the concept and the surroundings is welcome.” The spirit here is correspondingly experimental, artistic, and extravagant. Legendary—and known far beyond Cologne’s city limits—is Robodonien: the creative robot art and music festival.

Little Burning Man, Cologne-style: Robodonien

When it’s time for Robodonien, elaborately constructed automatons, androids, and mechanical creatures come to life on the grounds—and take you into a world full of creative electronics, cybernetics, pyrotechnics, performances and multimedia shows, street theater, and experimental music by artists from all over the world.

Our tip: The fire-breathing dragons, robot horses, monstrous steel creatures, and flamethrowers are, of course, especially imaginative at night. Definitely an experience—whether you live here or are just visiting Cologne.

Odonien: A Beer Garden Where Art Meets Kölsch

No events on the horizon? Then stop by Odonien’s beer garden. Especially on balmy summer nights, a pleasant, laid-back atmosphere awaits you. Order a delicious drink or a snack—and make yourself comfortable among the plants and sculptures.

There’s plenty of variety for lovers of visual art—after all, Odonien founder Odo Rumpf exhibits his art here. And if you come often, you can even watch the art come to life.

The Story Behind Odonien

Great things often begin with an extraordinary story. At Odonien, it begins with Odo Rumpf—a mechanical engineer and metal sculptor by trade. Odo was offered the old railroad yard on Hornstraße for his work—and he still uses it today as an open-air studio. Odonien has evolved over time—thanks to the many ideas of creative people—into an event venue for every taste and every generation. After all, as we all know, the world’s most special places aren’t created on a drawing board.

Would you like to learn more about Odonien or the art of Odo Rumpf? Why not join one of the regular guided tours...