Warning: This is a gross generalization, as I have only been to two German cemeteries. If you are okay with that read on, if not, read something else.
The German cemetery is totally different than most US cemeteries I have seen. I get the sense that cemeteries back home are mostly a place where we bury the dead but don't really memorialize them. It's not that we forget about them it's just that we choose to honor their memory in other places. (I know there are exceptions)
Not so here. The two graveyards I have been to were bustling centers. In Kaiserslautern proper, the main cemetery is surrounded by flower shops, tombstone sculptors and bakeries.
I have been by the main cemetery many times. Sitting on a bench at the entrance I am stuck by the people continually coming in to tend the graves, mostly older women. They use water cans and spigots that are located throughout the grounds to water their potted plants, no silk flowers here. Each family plot is carefully swept and raked.
I am not sure what all this says about a culture. What does it mean when you revere the dead so? What does it mean when you don't? Does your life matter less as the generations pass and your grave is forgotten? Of course, the more money you have the bigger your tombstone... Does that mean you were a better person? It makes me wonder what a modern day Saint like Mother Theresa's grave looks like. Is this just another way we chase immortality?
Whatever the meaning, if they all look like this, I would rather walk around in a German cemetery. They are much more interesting.
Asian inspired family plot.
This tombstone includes an all-weather color photo and additional statue.
The happy couple in perpetuity.
A place to tout your accomplishments. Apparently he was a pretty good soccer player.
A snail hanging out on a gravestone.
A store flyer advertising memorial candles.