Zeche Zollverein
One of the most popular spots in Nordhrein Western Pomerania
While in the past about 15,000 mine cars would be filled with coal every day, nowadays it serves as an industrial monument with over 1.5 million visitors every year.
Zeche Zollverein used to be the biggest, most modern and advanced coal mine in Europe. In December 1986, the plant got shut down after 135 years and nowadays Zeche Zollverein is considered the most beautiful colliery in the world.
Located in the industrial complex of Essen, the protected historic monument is one the biggest of its kind in Europe. Mineshaft 1/2/8 and the main colliery where named UNESCO-World Cultural Heritage.
Several kinds of activities can be done here.
The Ruhrmuseum is located in mineshaft 12 and the monument trail visualizes the history of the mine as well as several production processes.
Summer visitors can enjoy the Werksschwimmbad (factory pool) which also serves as an 1800 m² ice skating track in winter.
More information about Zeche Zollverein
Photo credits
© Frank Vinken / Stiftung Zollverein
© Thomas Willemsen / Stiftung Zollverein