Essen

The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex
UNESCO-World Heritage since 2001


The Zollverein mine in Essen was the biggest and most modern coal-mining complex in the world. The two Bauhaus-inspired architects Fritz Schupp and Martin Kremmer, who designed every last detail of the twin-axis industrial complex to harmonise in accordance with the principles of symmetry and geometry, created a unique model complex in Zollverein Shaft XII.

Since then, the site has been developed into an industrial monument of international importance with a lively arts centre. At the “most attractive coal mine in the Ruhr”, visitors can trace the development of modern art of the 20s and 30s alongside that of heavy industry.

The surface plant, which has been preserved in its original condition, houses the Zollverein Museum. Here, visitors can follow the “Black Gold Trail” accompanied by expert tour guides. On the tour, illustrative models, films and museum installations show how the coal was processed - to a soundtrack of authentic noises.

Route Suggestion
Through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley to Cologne, Brühl, Aachen and Essen