Kray

Kray is a district in eastern Essen with mixed development featuring residential areas, industrial structures, and green spaces throughout. The neighborhood connects several railway stations, forming an important transportation hub for the region.

The settlement began in 1340 under the name Creia and grew from scattered farmsteads into an industrial center after the Bonifacius mine opened in 1857. The area eventually merged with Essen, ending its period of independence.

The local football club FC Kray represents a core part of community identity and shows how residents are connected through shared sporting interests. The team reflects social bonds that remain strong within the neighborhood.

The area is served by two railway stations: Essen-Kray Nord and Essen-Kray Süd, which connect the district to the wider regional network. Visitors can easily reach and move through the neighborhood using public transportation.

The historic town hall was built between 1907 and 1908 and stands as a reminder of when this neighborhood was still an independent municipality. The building remains a distinctive landmark that shaped the area's identity before it joined the larger city.