Echoes of Industry
Oberhausen / Germany /OST Ostschweizer Fachhochschule Rapperswil
1752
The Ruhr Metropolis has been significantly shaped by coal mines and ironworks since the industrial era. Several industrial sites have been preserved and enhanced for recreation, leading to the creation of the Route of Industrial Heritage. It resembles the most important landmarks which are also called „Lighthouses” of the Ruhr Metropolis. Prior to this most parts got destroyed since it was a major target during World War II, including Neumarkt-Sterkrade, where our lost site is loca-ted. Our lost site was neglected for years, primarily serving as a viewpoint of the nearby colliery. After its closure, a furniture store was built, and the square was converted into a parking lot, also hosting a weekly market and the Kirmes funfair once a year. An underground parking garage was added in the 1990s. Today, the furniture store is abandoned, the underground garage is closed, and the square is used only for parking to a limited extent. The only remaining activity is the annual Kirmes funfair.
