Hidden Gems of the Ruhr

The Ruhr region's industrial heritage is reimagined through these unique landmarks. Explore the 19th-century Villa Hügel mansion, the Krupp family's former residence, or climb the Tiger & Turtle sculpture, a walkable roller-coaster-style installation in Duisburg. The Gasometer Oberhausen and Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord showcase repurposed industrial structures, now serving as an exhibition hall and a public park. For art enthusiasts, the Museum Island Hombroich integrates modern architecture with nature, while the Bramme für das Ruhrgebiet stands as a monumental steel sculpture atop a former slag heap.

Dr.G.Schmitz / CC BY-SA 3.0

Villa Hügel

The Villa Hügel is a 19th-century mansion in Bredeney, now part of Essen, Germany.

Cristina 1981 / CC BY-SA 3.0

Gasometer Oberhausen

The Gasometer Oberhausen is a former gas holder in Oberhausen, Germany, which has been converted into an exhibition space.

kaʁstn / CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Landscape Park Duisburg-Nord

Landschaftspark is a public park located in Duisburg-Meiderich, Germany.

Willi Heidelbach / CC BY-SA 3.0

Bramme für das Ruhrgebiet

A 14.5-meter-high minimalist steel slab created by American sculptor Richard Serra. Standing atop the Schurenbachhalde slag heap in Essen, this 67-ton monolith serves as a landmark commemorating the region’s industrial history and coal mining heritage.