Bochum, 4 hotels

The German Mining Museum explores the technical development of mining from its earliest origins to the present day, from an economic, social and cultural perspective. It examines coal and lignite mining, as well as metal and iron ore mining. The extraction of natural gas and crude oil, as well as the processes of deep-sea diving are all explored. On display are original machines and equipment, models, display boards, maps, as well as mineral and rock collections. Historical images also offer a fascinating glimpse into the realities of working underground.

The mining tower of the Hannover colliery rises up over its surroundings like a Medieval castle. The facade of the Malakow tower is ornately decorated with detailed brickwork: Pilaster strips, ledges, blind arches, two arch friezes and a crenellated wreath. Some of the same style elements have been adapted to the simpler engine house. This impressive facility is a testament to the entrepreneurial self-confidence and optimism of the modern industrial world. The mechanics hall is home to the oldest surviving mining machine from the Ruhr’s mining district, still in its original location: a two-cylinder compound steam engine from 1893.

The Bochum Rathaus was designed by the Darmstadt architect Karl Roth and opened in 1931. With its simple facade, the building is among the Ruhr region’s most significant buildings and has been heritage listed. The glockenspiel in the Rathaus tower is particularly special. It is the world’s first glockenspiel made of cast steel, and is able to play a selection of favorite folk melodies. Experts have declared it to be the best glockenspiel in Germany, and on a par with the famous Dutch instruments.

Experience the starry night skies at the Zeiss Planetarium! Come on a breathtaking flight through our solar system, far out amidst the stars, journey into foreign galaxies and land on distant planets. Even our own planet, Earth, will be shown in a whole new light. The birth of new suns, immense star clusters and strange new worlds are just waiting to be discovered. Thanks to its modern technology, the Zeiss Planetarium in Bochum is among the leading facilities of its kind in Germany, promising you a first class cosmic experience.

The LWL-Museum for Archaeology is located just 1km away from the B&B Hotel Bochum-Herne. More than a million visitors have entered this exciting underground landscape over the past 12 years, with its research lab and regularly changing special exhibitions. Experience the fascinating world of archaeology from up close and admire priceless exhibits like the urn of Gevlinghausen. Also on offer holiday programs, creative seminars and many more events.