100 years of escalators: Cologne's rise into the modern city world!

100 years of escalators: Cologne's rise into the modern city world!

History was made in Cologne on July 11, 1925: Germany's first escalator opened its doors in the Tietz department store. These “roller sidewalks” not only promised to save time and money, but also ushered in the age of urban living environments. The city of Cologne was a pioneer in Germany, and just a few months later Berlin and Munich followed with the introduction of similar systems. In Berlin it was even common for a lift boy to assist customers in using the escalator. Escalators quickly became a symbol of modern life and a rapidly changing urban environment, such as sueddeutsche.de reported.

The escalator's history dates back to the late 19th century, when Jesse W. Reno patented a revolving platform. The first practical escalator opened in 1892 at Coney Island amusement park, New York. Escalators quickly became the preferred means of controlling large crowds - a concept that has proven successful in the urban architecture scene to this day. There are now around 39,000 escalators in Germany. After the Second World War, they played a central role in the post-war economy and became part of the economic miracle. Reinhard Mey sings about his childhood experiences on escalators, and they have become the norm, especially in urban environments.

The fascination of the escalator

However, a lack of hygiene concepts led to many parents advising their children not to hold on to the handrail. But despite such concerns, the escalator continues to attract attention - not only in shopping centers, but also as a cinematic element, such as in "Skyfall", where James Bond uses it as a slide. Meanwhile, in cities like London and Moscow, particularly long and fast escalators have become established in subway stations, and this also applies to Medellín, where escalators were installed in Comuna 13 in 2011 to improve access and reduce crime, according to plough.com.

Comuna 13 in Medellín is a prime example of urban change. Formerly controlled by armed groups and the scene of Operation Orion in 2002, the district has since changed significantly thanks to various urban development projects. These initiatives also include the installation of open-air escalators, which serve as a tourist attraction: in 2018, they attracted around 170,000 visitors, 70 percent of whom were international tourists. These escalators symbolize not only hope and progress, but also a shared identity preserved in the local community through art and stories.

An example of positive change

The changes in Medellín are therefore not just of a structural nature. They reflect a profound social transformation that is accompanied by a decline in murder rates and a decline in crime. Under Mayor Sergio Fajardo, emphasis was placed on urban change that was intended to significantly improve the quality of life for residents. Even today, the path to justice and social equality in the region is an issue that is far from complete, as archdaily.com shows.

The escalator, whether in Cologne or Medellín, remains a fascinating example of how urban infrastructure can not only make everyday life easier, but can also trigger cultural and social change. And as we celebrate the centenary of the Cologne escalator, it becomes clear that even the simplest technical achievements can have a profound impact on society.