Dortmund is a city phenomenon. Industrial heritage, a rich cultural program, green parks and a legendary soccer atmosphere are intertwined here.
Geographical location of Dortmund
To find where Dortmund is on a map, look to the west of Germany. It is located in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The area of Dortmund is 280 km², and it is the largest population center of the Ruhr region. It has a temperate climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it suitable for traveling and walking.
Dortmund lies in the upper reaches of the Emscher River and the middle reaches of the Ruhr. The Lippe River flows to the north, and all are right tributaries of the Rhine. Despite its industrial past, Dortmund is actively developing ecological spaces, so it is a beautiful green city, comfortable for living and relaxing.
A brief history of Dortmund
Dortmund's early history dates back to the Bronze Age. It is first mentioned in 880 under the name of Trotmani. In the IX century there was a small ancient building in its place, but in 1152 King Frederick Barbarossa settled in it and completely rebuilt everything. Gradually life and industry began to settle down. In 1293 Dortmund began to produce beer, one of the main local attractions.
Later the city suffered greatly in the Thirty Years' War and changed its status several times during the Napoleonic era. Since the nineteenth century, rapid industrialization and industrial development began. In particular, due to coal mining and metallurgy. In 1847 it became one of the largest railroad hubs in the region, and another half century later the city port and shipping canal opened.
After World War II, the city was virtually destroyed and then rebuilt. Initially there were doubts about whether this was worthwhile - the situation was so bad. But the global demand for steel and coal from Dortmund contributed to its rapid rebuilding in a matter of years.
In recent decades, Dortmund has ceased to be solely an industrial center and has also become a center of technology, science and culture. Today, Dortmund is known for innovation, modern spaces and of course the Borussia Dortmund soccer club, one of the oldest, most successful and popular in Germany.
Dortmund demographics
The population of Dortmund is 586,600 as of 2021. The population of Dortmund is very diverse. Germans, Turks, Poles, Syrians, Italians and other nationalities live here.
The city is also home to many expats and students, thanks to its universities and international companies. What language is spoken in Dortmund? It's simple, the official language is German, but English is widely used in the tourist and business environment.
Dortmund's economy and infrastructure
For centuries now, everyone has unmistakably known which country Dortmund is in, due to its heavy industry. It is what has helped it develop to its current level, attracting workers, investors and finance from all over the world.
Another crucial part of the local economy is beer production. For years, Dortmund was the real "beer capital" of the country, producing millions of liters of the hoppy beverage. To this day, Dortmunder beer remains the symbol of the region.
It is also home to one of Germany's largest universities, the Technical University of Dortmund. It offers more than 80 programs and educates more than 30 thousand students. The university is famous for its scientific activities in the fields of physics, electrical engineering, chemistry and economics.
Transportation and architecture of Dortmund
The city's transportation system is well developed: modern buses, streetcars, subway (U-Bahn) and a convenient railway network make it easy to get around the city and beyond. Six autobahns pass through the city. There is also an international airport. Dortmund is one of the main transportation hubs of Westphalia.
Architecturally, Dortmund combines old Gothic buildings, industrial buildings turned into art spaces, and modern office centers. Some former mines and factories have also been converted into museums, cultural centers and concert venues. But keep in mind that there are very few really old buildings left after the bombings.
Culture and attractions in Dortmund
Dortmund is famous for its legendary Signal Iduna Park stadium, which seats around 81,000 people. Even if you're not a soccer fan, it's worth a visit for the ineffable atmosphere. Among the historic buildings you should see the Old Town Hall and the Eagle Tower, stroll through the Old Market, and check out St. Rinald's Church. For leisurely strolls, the Westphalia Park, one of the largest in Europe, is ideal. Or the Rombergpark botanical garden.
In recent years, Dortmund has become a center for street art and contemporary music. The city boasts impressive graffiti created by both local and international artists. Electronic music and jazz festivals are held here every year. And, of course, beer festivals and industrial exhibitions.
Visiting the industrial museums in the mines, the Florianturm TV tower and the German Football Museum will be an interesting experience. The city has a driverless H-Bahn suspension railroad. And industrial areas are full of modern cafes and art spaces. For fans of classics and cultural entertainment, there's the Opera House.
Why visit Dortmund
Dortmund is a city that surprises with its contrasts: industrial heritage is combined with a rich cultural life, and soccer passion is complemented by cozy green parks. For this alone, it is definitely worth a visit!
