Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen in Germany

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Zollverein
Zeche und Kokerei Zollverein (german only)
UNESCO Commission of Germany
Zeche Zollverein XII, Essen (german only)
Zeche Zollverein - gestern, heute, morgen (german only)
Kokerei Zollverein (german only)
Die Industriedenkmal Stiftung (german only0
Zollverein Foundation

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2001
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 7,046°
Latitude: 51,491°

Summary

The Zollverein industrial complex in Land Nordrhein-Westfalen consists of the complete infrastructure of a historical coal-mining site, with some 20th-century buildings of outstanding architectural merit. It constitutes remarkable material evidence of the evolution and decline of an essential industry over the past 150 years.

Location on Map

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The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen, Germany

The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, located in Essen, Germany, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the region's industrial heritage. Situated in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen), this complex played a pivotal role in the development of the coal and steel industries in Europe.

History

The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex dates back to the late 19th century when coal mining became a significant economic activity in the Ruhr region. The complex was designed by architects Fritz Schupp and Martin Kremmer and was built between 1927 and 1932. It quickly became one of the most modern and efficient coal mines in the world, employing thousands of workers.

During World War II, the complex suffered severe damage due to bombings, but it was rebuilt and continued its operations until 1986. The closure of the mine marked the end of an era for the coal industry in the region, as it transitioned towards other economic sectors.

Current State

Today, the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex stands as a remarkable example of industrial architecture and is a popular tourist destination. The site has been carefully preserved and restored, allowing visitors to experience the history and significance of the coal mining industry.

The complex consists of several buildings, including the iconic coal washing plant, coking plant, and shafts. These structures showcase the innovative design and engineering techniques employed during the industrial revolution. The coal washing plant, in particular, is an architectural masterpiece, with its imposing steel framework and large glass facades.

Visitors can explore the complex through guided tours, which provide insights into the mining process, the working conditions of the miners, and the impact of the coal industry on the region. The exhibitions within the complex feature interactive displays, photographs, and artifacts that bring the history to life.

In addition to its historical significance, the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex has also become a hub for cultural activities. The former coal washing plant has been transformed into the Red Dot Design Museum, showcasing contemporary design and innovation. The complex also hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and events, attracting visitors from around the world.

Address
Distance: 2,0 mi
Hesslerstrasse 37
45329 Essen
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 15:00 - 19:00
Weekend: 13:00 - 19:00

Videos from the area

Sound Check M116

Published: January 14, 2015
Length: 37:57 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: vierkommazwei.de

Noch mehr Mercedes gibt es auf: http://www.sterne-blog.de/ Mercedes V8 sound check, because the Mercedes Benz engines make musik. We found a few parts of videos, so we cut this small clip....

Zollverein von oben

Published: November 25, 2012
Length: 14:49 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: binisoft

Zeche und Kokerei Zollverein im November 2012. Aufgenommen mit einer Videodrohne (DJI F450) und einer GoPro Hero 2.

Speed Of Light Ruhr Zeche Zollverein Essen, 4. Oktober 2013

Published: November 03, 2013
Length: 00:25 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: kovaan64

Zielchoreographie der Lichterläufer im Rahmen der "Speed Of Light Ruhr" am 4. Oktober auf dem Gelände der Zeche Zollverein in Essen.

Glamourös, edel und chic – die Lieb Ju Fashion Show auf Zeche Zollverein

Published: March 31, 2015
Length: 31:49 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Lieb Ju

Das junge Taschenlabel Lieb Ju stellt auf Zeche Zollverein spektakulär die neuen Kollektionen vor. Mit über 400 begeisterten Gästen, unter anderem Frauke Ludowig, Mara Bergmann Michèle...