Wasserturm des Dortmunder Südbahnhofs, Water tower and architectural monument near Südbahnhof, Dortmund, Germany.
The Wasserturm is a 43-meter tall brick building featuring two concrete water tanks in its upper section, each holding 800 cubic meters of water. Seven stories tall, it had retail spaces on the ground floor and various service areas for railway staff throughout its remaining levels.
Built between 1923 and 1927 by Deutsche Reichsbahn, it supplied water to steam locomotives at Dortmund South railway station until the 1950s. As steam trains declined, the tower lost its primary purpose and was later adapted for office and other uses.
The social spaces within reflect how the railway cared for its workers in the early 20th century. Changing rooms, washing facilities, and staff quarters show the company's commitment to employee welfare.
Today the building functions as offices and can be viewed from the outside, with its red brick structure clearly visible from the railway yard area. Visitors can explore the surroundings at any time, as the forecourt of South station provides good access.
The former water tanks in the upper sections now host art exhibitions, presentations, and concerts, transforming these industrial storage spaces into vibrant cultural venues. This adaptive reuse demonstrates how historic railway infrastructure can gain a second life with creative programming.
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