Wasserwerk Bockum, Historical waterworks in Wittlaer, Düsseldorf, Germany

Wasserwerk Bockum is a neoclassical complex built between 1910 and 1911, with a portico, machine house and boiler house, erected to pump groundwater for Duisburg. In the large hall stand three operational double-cylinder compound steam engines that used high- and low-pressure cylinders plus vacuum pumping to exploit steam power three ways, reaching 30,000 m³ of drinking water a day.

The facility started operating in 1912 as a waterworks to supply the region and ran for over 70 years. It was shut down in 1989 after playing a key role in water infrastructure for a long time.

The facility marks an important point in the region's industrial history and shows how cities organized their water supply. You can still see today how the machines and buildings worked together to pump and distribute water.

Visiting is best during special events like Heritage Day when the buildings and machinery are opened to visitors. At other times, a visit may require advance booking or be limited to external views.

Two of the remaining steam engines date back to the founding year of 1912, while the third was added in 1914 and all are still in working condition. This makes the site a rare place where you can see original industrial machinery from over 100 years ago in its original form.