Zeche Scharnhorst, Coal mine and archaeological site in Alt-Scharnhorst, Germany
Zeche Scharnhorst is a former coal mine and archaeological site that preserves remnants of mining infrastructure and a restored wheel from the original shaft equipment. The complex displays the physical traces of industrial operations that once dominated this location.
The mine was founded in 1891 as a coal extraction facility and became a major industrial operation for the region. In 1930 an underground tunnel connected it to the neighboring Zeche Gneisenau, which continued operating until 1975.
The district takes its name from a Prussian military officer, connecting the site to broader regional history. Local residents view the mine as central to their neighborhood's identity and heritage.
Public transportation makes the site easy to visit, with Grunewald station just a short walk away for access. The location in Alt-Scharnhorst is easily reached from central Dortmund on foot or by bus.
Underground tunnels linked this mine to the neighboring Zeche Gneisenau, allowing air to circulate between the two operations for ventilation purposes. This hidden connection was a clever engineering solution that kept both facilities working smoothly underground.
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