| |
Welcome to Essen. In
just 150 years Essen grew in size from 4,000 inhabitants in 1810
to 720,000 in 1962. Krupp’s industrial revolution brought many
migrants to Essen. However with the disappearance of heavy industry,
the population has declined somewhat to approximately 600,000 today.
Essen is a city rich in culture and history.
Once known as a mining town, Essen now has more than half of its
city area green. Many parks, farms and meadows provide a lush landscape
one did not previously expect from Essen. Below are some of the
interesting places to see:
- Zeche
Carl - In 1970, this once booming mine was closed down and
made into a historic landmark. It is today one of the oldest and
largest social cultural centers. It offers such events as rock,
blues, pop and punk concerts, satires, comedies, exhibits, music
events, and sporting events.
- Zeche
Zollverein - Built in 1932 in Bauhaus architecture, the largest
and most appealing mining structure in Europe was the last mine
to be permanently closed in Essen in 1986. Many parts of the mine
are still open for viewing and UNESCO, the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization just listed it on its World
Heritage list last year. Other buildings within the mining area
include a restaurant, the Design Center of North Rhine Westfalia
and halls for events and conferences.
- Grugapark
- Situated right behind the exhibition complex this sprawling
170 acre park allows one to escape from a busy trade show day
or just stroll through the park and be immersed in horticultural
beauty. The abundant varieties of flowers, plants, trees, bushes
and shrubs keeps one mesmerized and the native and exotic gardens
are truly a sight to behold. Not only does the park offer this
beauty, it has facilities for barbecuing, public events, sports
and playgrounds.
- Baldeneysee
- Built in 1931 as a water reservoir, this large body of water
is now a center point for tourists and locals alike. Walking along
the boardwalk one passes many restaurants and cafes where one
can stop for a cup of coffee and cake, or join friends in a Beer
garden for some laughs. Inline skaters, joggers, bikers, and strollers
can all be found meandering along the Baldeneysee.
- Villa
Hügel - - Built from plans by Alfred Krupp in 1873, this
mansion was home to the Krupp dynasty for more than 70 years.
Today it is home to historical exhibits and special events. It
is surrounded by the 150 acre Hügel Park where visitors can
stroll or relax in the sun.
|
