Essen Sights and Landmarks Guide, Germany

None of the old smoke filled industrial center is seen in today’s Essen. In fact, the city has become one of the most eco-friendly cities in the world. The city boasts a myriad of sights that can be enjoyed by everyone from the historical landmarks to architectural beauties. Aside from that, Essen evolved into an events hub, where people from different countries gather. Learn more about the infamous Essen Sights through the following paragraphs.

Essen Sights – Notable Landmarks

The major landmarks of Essen constitute a combination of the past and present. Some of the attractions existed since the 9th century and some are wonders of the present. These sights share the same footing as Cologne Sights.

Zecke Zollverein. Situated at Land Nordrhein-Westfalen, this highly developed cultural center was once used as a colliery and is the city’s identifying landmark. Zollverein was declared a historical monument because of its industrial and architectural significance. Visitors can tour the areas of mining and be familiar with the history of colliery. A part of the colliery was made into the Design Center North-Rhine Westphalia (technology museum) and Casino Zollverein (restaurant).

Essen Cathedral. The church first built in 845 and reconstructed in 1275 now holds the seat of the Bishop of Essen. It houses the treasures that have been kept since the Ottonian times, such as the Golden Madonna of Essen (around 980), the child crown of Emperor Otto III and the seven-branched candelabrum.

Villa Hügel. This classical chateau-type residence was built in 1873. The 269-room mansion surrounded by 75 hectares of forest and park landscape was once home to the Krupp family. Today, it is used mainly to host lofty art exhibitions and concerts, making the Villa a superlative cultural center of world standards.

Folkwang Museum. This museum holds Essen’s top art collections from the 19th to 20th centuries. Another noteworthy feature of this museum is its superb collection on the history of photography.

Aalto Theatre. The home to the Essen Opera, this bright granite asymmetric building was celebrated as the most beautiful German theater. First class opera and ballet performances are held here, as well as piano matinees and song evenings, drawing audiences even from foreign neighboring countries.

Essen Sights – Events

Because of its exciting line up of yearly festivities, Essen has become a gathering place of people who love the culture, food, entertainment, and even cars! For this reason, Essen has emerged as one of the most diverse events and cultural destinations in Europe.

Essen Original. For three days, the streets of the entire city of Essen become the stage for cultural festivities and music. Traditionally, each day has a different theme: Friday – rock and pop, Saturday – classical music, and Sunday - comedy.

Essen Motor Show. A major treat for automobile fans, the Essen Motor Show holds the world’s most assorted and unique automobile exhibition. It is divided into sections – Automobile, Tuning, Old Timers and Classic Cars and the Show Center.

Essen Sights depict the various battles won by the city. They show how people were able to rehabilitate the once devastated place. Now, these attractions are favored by a lot of tourists like those of Frankfurt Sights.