Mine Nordstern, Coal mine in Gelsenkirchen, Germany
Nordstern is a former coal mine in Gelsenkirchen featuring preserved industrial buildings, coal bunkers, and transport bridges near the Rhein-Herne canal at the northern edge of the Ruhr region. The site spans several areas with different structures and layouts.
The mine started operations in 1868 under the name Blücher, later renamed to Nordstern, and extracted coal until closure in 1993. For over a century, it played a key role in the region's economy.
The site took its name Nordstern and transformed into a park that hosted the Federal Garden Exhibition in 1997, becoming part of a network of historic gardens across Europe. Artists and cultural organizations now use the buildings and grounds to organize exhibitions and events.
The areas with art centers and an amphitheater are easily accessible by foot and well-connected to surrounding paths. Wear sturdy shoes since you'll walk across the expansive outdoor grounds.
Shaft tower II displays a monumental sculpture by artist Markus Lüpertz, installed during the RUHR.2010 European Capital of Culture event. This artwork transforms the former industrial structure into a visible symbol of cultural renewal.
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