Hm. Now that you mention it I remember molten asphalt between the Rhine and Cologne Cathedral while being there on a trip with my mother while I was very young. That even melted the soles of shoes, not only mine, but most people there. It all stank like a construction site where they paved the streets. But it wasn't. Luckily one could flee into the many shops and restaurants near there, and buy new shoes! :-)