Bochum’s museums pay a lot of tribute to the industrial history of this city and the entire Ruhr region. But if you’re not in the mood to go deep underground in an old coal mine, you can also head to one of the fine art galleries that call Bochum home.
Bochum Museums
Deutsches Bergbaumuseum (German Mining Museum)
The Deutsches Bergbaumuseum or German Mining Museum (Am Bergbaumuseum 28) is a good place to learn about the industrial history of the Ruhr region. This Bochum museum was founded in 1930 and allows you to visit its deep underground tunnels and shafts.
You’ll have no trouble spotting this museum either. Its distinctive tower is 68 m (223 ft) high and is one of the most famous landmarks of Bochum.
Zeche Hannover (Hanover Coal Mine) and Kiddies Colliery
The Zeche Hannover or Hanover Coal Mine (Günnigfelder Straße) was the last coal mine to be closed in Bochum, back in 1973. It has been preserved and expertly restored as a heritage site for Bochum’s industrial history.
The Kiddies Colliery is a fun place to bring the children (or the young-at-heart) to find out all about the inner workings of the coal mine.
Deutsches Eisenbahnmuseum (German Railway Museum)
This Bochum museum also pays tribute to the industrial heritage of the Ruhr region. The German Railway Museum (Dr.-C.-Otto-Straße 191) displays several old engines, powered by steam, diesel or electricity, as well as the wagons pulled by these powerhouses. Some of the engines are even still in working order.
Bochum Galleries
Art Collections of Ruhr – University
This Bochum museum offers something for everyone. The Art Collections of Ruhr (Universitätsstraße 150) can be found just opposite of the University forum. In one place, you can visit the ancient world of art as well as modern innovations. In addition to the antiquities and modern art sections, you can also view a fine collection of coins here.
Bochum Museum Collection of Art
The Bochum Museum Collection of Art (Kortumstraße 147) is a showcase of international works from the last century. Apart from the usual exhibits, there are many extra activities that go on here. You can take a class (both adults and children) or utilize their multimedia rooms.
