Oberhausen Water Tower

The Oberhausen Water Tower is a red brick structure rising roughly 60 meters high with the sturdy design typical of late 19th century industrial buildings. Its facade shows characteristic windows and architectural details that reflect the engineering practices of that era.

The tower was built in 1897 to supply water to the rapidly expanding industries of the Ruhr region. It was decommissioned in 1965 when more modern water supply systems replaced its function.

The water tower represents how this city's growth depended on reliable water systems that supported factories and residents alike. Today it functions as a landmark that helps people understand the connection between industrial needs and urban development in the Ruhr region.

The structure is easily reached by public transportation and sits in a walkable neighborhood. Inside, exhibition spaces explain the history of water systems that shaped the city's development.

The tower operated under two separate companies, which shows how critical it was to different parts of local industry. This shared management was unusual and reflects how complicated supply systems had to be during the industrial boom.