Gelsenkirchen
Gelsenkirchen is a city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is known for its industrial heritage, particularly in coal mining and steel production, which significantly shaped its history and economy.
History
The city's history begins in the 11th century, where it was first mentioned as "Gelsincheim" in a document from the Essen Abbey. Initially, it was a small settlement with agriculture as the primary source of livelihood. However, with the advent of the Industrial Revolution, Gelsenkirchen transformed into a major coal mining center. Here are some key historical points:
- In the 19th century, the discovery of coal led to rapid urbanization and industrial growth.
- By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gelsenkirchen had become one of the largest coal mining centers in Germany.
- After World War II, the coal industry faced decline due to international competition and the shift towards cleaner energy sources.
- The city has since diversified its economy, focusing on service industries, logistics, and renewable energy.
Geography and Demographics
Gelsenkirchen is located in the Ruhr area, which is part of the larger Rhine-Ruhr Metropolitan Region. The city covers an area of about 104.87 km² and has a population of around 260,000 as of recent estimates. It is known for:
- Being one of the greenest cities in Germany due to its numerous parks and green spaces.
- The Emscher Landscape Park, which has transformed former industrial sites into cultural and recreational areas.
Economy
Historically reliant on coal and steel, Gelsenkirchen has diversified:
- It hosts the headquarters of several companies, including the energy company E.ON.
- There are efforts to foster new industries like IT, renewable energy, and logistics.
- The city is also home to Schalke 04, one of Germany's most famous football clubs, contributing to the local economy through sports tourism.
Culture and Attractions
Gelsenkirchen offers a range of cultural attractions:
Transportation
The city is well-connected by:
External Links
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