Essen

With origins that can be traced back to the 9th Century, the city of Essen boasts a long and colorful history. The city itself is a masterful blend of modernity and historic charm. Essen is known not only as the country's ninth largest city, but also as the cultural and commercial center of the Ruhr region. With an urban landscape that ties together the present and the past, Essen attracts both cultural and commercial tourism. History buffs will find much to catch their fancy in Essen. Visit the Zollverein Coal Mine to learn how coal mining shaped the city's industrial heritage, admire exquisite works of art at the Museum Folkwang, and marvel the awesome beauty of one of Germany's oldest cathedrals - the Essen Minster. These are just a few of the many glorious attractions that await those who have found their way here. Essen also offers a diverse cultural program in the form of festivals, fairs and concerts that attract an audience from far and wide. Visit Essen to experience for yourself all that this magnificent city has to offer.