Whether disused plant, industrial wasteland or slag heap – the old industrial sites have been given a new function through extensive remodelling. The Zollverein colliery, for example, is now home to an art university, old gas and water reservoirs have been converted into museums and landmarks of the region can be seen from afar on spoil tips. The industrial monuments blend naturally into the new landscape of the Ruhr region – and are definitely worth a visit!
Anyone visiting Essen should make time for a piece of industrial history. Because the industrial heritage of the Ruhr region really is something very special. It impressively symbolises the future of a region that has been shaped by its industrial past like no other in the world.