Despite the name’s culinary connotations, Hamburger SV is one of Germany’s most storied football (or soccer) clubs. Just steps from its home stadium, the Volksparkstadion, it has a dedicated fan burial ground. The site grew out of repeated requests from supporters who wanted their ashes scattered on the pitch, often beneath the penalty spot. As this is illegal in Germany, the idea of offering burial plots near the stadium emerged instead.

Opened in 2008 on a section of a larger Hamburg cemetery, the site was reportedly the first of its kind in Europe. It is shaped like a curved football stand across three ascending levels, with a concrete goal marking the entrance, pitch turf underfoot, and plastic chairs from the club’s ground lining the terraces.…