Zollverein Coal Washing Plant

With its impressive architecture and history, the Zollverein coal washing plant in Essen is a must for any adventurer who wants to explore the heart of industrial culture. Even as the largest coal washing plant of its time, it fascinated people with its dimensions of 90 meters long, 30 meters wide and 45 meters high. This is where coal was once separated from rock - a decisive step for the industrial progress of the region.

Today, the building shines in new splendor thanks to the creative vision of architects Rem Koolhaas and Heinrich Böll, who have redesigned it in line with its listed status. The first impression that visitors get when they enter via the iconic, glowing orange escalator is breathtaking. This leads to the 24-metre level, which houses the international visitor center and a cosy café.

On a tour of discovery, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the Ruhr region. The upper levels offer an authentic look back at the industrial past with the original preserved machines of the monument trail. On the 30-meter level, the Industrial Heritage Portal invites visitors to delve further into the subject. The underground levels are home to the Ruhr Museum, which tells the eventful history of the region with around 6,000 exhibits and fascinating special exhibitions.

Ready for an unconventional experience? The coal washing plant is not just a place, but a journey of discovery that inextricably combines creativity and history. Immerse yourself in the world of industrial heritage and experience first-hand how vision and reality once intersected. More information can be found on the official Zollverein website, a portal to an era that still impresses today.