Essen is one of the beautiful and ancient cities of Germany. It is rightfully considered one of the cultural centers of Europe. There are many beautiful castles, each of which hides a secret. Also in the city there are unique museums, which tourists from all over the world specially go to see. But most of all, this small city is famous for its coal mines. More information about the sights of Essen and the environs of Germany will be described in this article.
Interesting Facts
In the very center of the Ruhr region (37 km from Dortmund and 70 from Cologne) in the north-western part of Germany (the land of North Westphalia) is the small town of Essen. Despite the fact that it is inferior in size to such cities as Munich and Cologne, it is very popular among tourists who come here with pleasure. There are so many interesting things. Starting from the history of the city and ending with its sights. Among the unusual facts about Essen are the following:
- It has a wonderful climate, stunning landscapes and clean air. The second name of the city is "the green capital of Europe." It is the warmest city in Germany with comfortable winters and moderately hot summers. If you are going to Essen, then the best time for this is from April to November.
- Initially, there were several blacksmith villages on the site of the city, in the mid-800s. e. St. Mary's Church was opened here. It is from its foundation that the development and formation of Essen begins. The main occupation of the city was coal mining. Since the 19th century, it has become the largest coal center in Germany. The large-scale construction of the railway begins.
- The architecture of the city was hit hard after World War II. Unfortunately, far from all the sights were restored. Recently, from the industrial city of Essen has turned into a large exhibition and business center with many high-rise buildings.
Travel Tips
For those who for the first time decided to see the sights of Essen (Germany), we suggest not postponing the matter, but boldly buy a ticket and go on a trip. So that you do not have problems in an unfamiliar city, pay attention to several recommendations:
- Essen is the largest railway station. It is connected with almost all cities in Germany. So if you fly by plane to Dusseldorf, you can catch an electric train and soon find yourself at your destination.
- Prices for accommodation in local hotels are quite affordable. In the center you can rent a good room for a small fee. Just remember to book a place first.
- There are many different nationalities living in the city, this affected the culture, customs and, of course, gastronomic delights. Here you can taste delicious dishes of European, Eastern and Asian cuisine. The most important advice from experienced tourists: if you want to save money - buy products in a supermarket and do not visit popular restaurants too often.
List of Essen sights and environs
Now let's talk about the most popular places worth visiting. As mentioned above, there are a lot of attractions in Essen (photos and descriptions will be presented below), and it will not work to get around them all at once. If this is your first visit to this town in Germany, we advise you to choose something from this list:
- Mine Solferain. Now there is a large museum with many exhibits from the history of the development and operation of the enterprise, as well as a museum of ceramics and modern design.
- Knight Hyuk's house. One of the oldest buildings in Essen. With a rich history and unique design.
- Huguenpot Castle. Definitely worth seeing to all lovers of ancient architectural monuments. Here you will learn many interesting stories and unveil the veil of secrets of the castle.
- Water castle Bomberk. The nearby English park will appeal to lovers of long walks. The architecture and interior of the castle will also leave a good impression.
- Grugapark. Essen's stunning landmark that you should definitely visit. This park is a true oasis of wildlife right in the center of the city. Here you can see the botanical garden with the rarest plants, admire the ancient fountains and ride the rides.
- Lake Baldeneysee. Essen's largest water body. An artificial reservoir that arose in the middle of the 19th century. Here you can take many beautiful photos, have a picnic or go boating.
Zolferain
At the beginning of the 19th century, a mine was built in the city, which for many years became the main coal enterprise of Essen. The first owner was the wealthy industrialist Johann Ganil. It received its name "Zolferain" in honor of the German Customs Union that arose simultaneously with it. Every detail was thought out to the smallest detail. Two architects, Fritz Schup and Martin Kremer, worked on the mine project plan. They wanted to make her unforgettable. When the mine was built, it was equipped with the best equipment of the 20th century, and the coal mining process began. In 1986, she ceased operations. Soon, the German government assigned Zolferain the status of a significant cultural monument.
Today, the mine is a large museum complex, which everyone can visit as part of an excursion group. Here you can see the Ruhr Museum with the remains of animals found during coal mining. But the most interesting is "The Way of Coal." At this attraction you can see all the details of coal production. You can also see the museum of design and ceramics, there are a lot of unique exhibits. In addition, there are various thematic exhibitions. And if you are tired and decide to have a bite, then for your convenience there is a cafe and a restaurant. The Zolferain mine operates every day from 11-00 to 17-00 (break from 13-00 to 14-00). Ticket price: 11 euros.
Villa Hugel
The famous mansion in the Bredenay district of Essen, located on a mountain towering above the Ruhr river and Lake Baldeneysee. He belonged to the dynasty of industrialists Krupp. The construction of the villa lasted about 4 years. The building plan was personally designed by Alfred Krupp. They say that he was very afraid of his ill-wishers, and therefore he tried to make his mansion as close as possible to a fortress. The doors to the owner’s private rooms were iron of three layers, and the windows did not open. There are about 250 rooms in the villa. On the territory of the mansion there was a beautiful park and a cozy guest house. Large industrialists and business group partners often gathered here.
At the end of the 20th century, a museum was opened here for everyone. In it you can see personal items, letters and the preserved symbol of the Krupp dynasty (three intertwined rings). It is also very interesting to see the exhibition of exhibits brought from Tibet and the large library, which contains more than 1000 unique books. Be sure to walk in the park when visiting this attraction of Essen (photo in the article). This will allow you to relax and enjoy the natural environment. The museum is open daily from 10-00 to 18-00.
Essen Cathedral
The famous cathedral church is one of the main attractions of Essen. It is located in the very center of the city (in the Stadtkern district, on the Burgplatz square). This church is a wonderful monument of Gothic architecture. It was built in 870 and for many years became the only convent in this county in Germany. A unique collection of historical values was collected here, many of which were destroyed during the Second World War. Since 1951, the cathedral began to be gradually restored. Now in the Essen Museum you can see stunning old artifacts:
- a three-meter statue of the Virgin Mary covered with real gold leaf;
- huge bronze menorah;
- cross of Matilda of Saxony and others.
The schedule of the cathedral: Tuesday-Saturday from 10-00 to 17-00, Sunday from 11-30 to 17-00. Here interesting excursions take place, during which you can learn a lot of new things.
Folkwang Museum
The world of contemporary art, in which there is absolutely everything: from sculpture to the best works of painting. Here you can see the paintings of Munch, Dali, Picasso and others. Get to know all the styles of contemporary art. Once, most of the museum's exhibits belonged to the German collector Karl Osthaus. After his death, the values were transferred to the Essen Museum. In the spacious halls, visitors can enjoy all the attractions of Volkwang. This is a great opportunity to touch the beautiful.
Huguenpot Castle
A complex of several structures surrounded by water. It is located in the Ketving district of Essen. It is believed that the castle appeared at the end of 778 and belonged first to Charles the Great, who then transferred it to the ownership of Verdun Abbey. In 1314, for good service, possession was presented to the German knight Flecke von Hugenpot. Now the castle is one of the attractions of Essen, there is a cozy hotel and restaurant. Tourists have a unique opportunity to live in the house of the famous ancient dynasty. All interiors have remained virtually unchanged.
Essen sights in Germany: reviews
Many tourists specially come to this city to study it in more detail. Indeed, in Essen in Germany (attractions and photos above), each street is fraught with something unusual. Visitors leave the following reviews:
- Here is such a sublime atmosphere, a rich collection of old exhibits. The impressions received from this place will be enough for a long time.
- It is very cozy here, cleanliness around, you can go fishing or boating. The park has many attractions and beautiful fountains.