Ruhr Museum, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

5Stefan G 5:00 PM Oct 2, 2020

One of the best museums
The Ruhr Museum is easily one of the best and most interesting museums I have ever visited anywhere in the world. Naturally, the fact the museum is in a HUGE, old industrial building is in itself extremely interesting. It's almost like one day the machines were just switched off, and then the next day a museum bloomed inside. Spread out over several floors, you will have to spend a day or even two to really see and read everything in the museum (most description cards were only in German, if I remember correctly, but there was also English for much of the museum). You can also go to the rooftop for wonderful views of the Zollverein complex. Obligatory giftshop and toilets available inside, as well. In the museum you'll gain an understanding of the impact the Ruhr Gebiet (Ruhr Valley/Area) had on the local population - how it was essentially their livelihood - and a good understanding of the impact industrialization has had on the environment, and what's being done about it today. There are numerous mining objects, countless gems, rocks, animals, etc., so many you'd think you actually went to a natural history museum. I can't express how fantastic this museum was. There is so much to see and the building itself and old mining machinery just make this an awesome experience. Highly recommended!

5Dinoney 5:00 PM Aug 1, 2022

Excellent display of local life and historical place.
The museum starts with present day - a refreshing choice. The best floor is the top floor and delves deep into the place of the Zollverein mine and the people of Rhur Valley. The following floors go back into history with the final place a time to reflect on the potential future. Recommend getting the app to guide your travel through the museum. It is a number system but allows for individual exploration.