Königsforst, Protected forest area in east Cologne, Germany.
Königsforst is a large protected forest area in east Cologne with continuous woodland and diverse plant and animal habitats. The landscape is shaped by gentle hills, creating a varied terrain within the city's eastern bounds.
The area began as a royal hunting ground for Frankish rulers and passed to the Archbishop of Cologne during the Middle Ages. This transfer shaped how the forest became an important possession for the region for centuries afterward.
The forest serves as a vital recreation area for Cologne residents, who use it regularly for walking, cycling, and spending time outdoors. These woodlands are woven into the city's identity and give local people a place to unwind.
The area features a well-developed network of walking trails, including circular routes that connect different parts of the forest. Maps are available to help visitors navigate and plan their routes.
The forest contains prehistoric burial mounds from the 6th and 7th centuries before Christ, revealing that people have inhabited this landscape for thousands of years. These archaeological traces are scattered throughout the woodland and remain visible today.
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