The Ruhr Area (German: Ruhrgebiet) is a polycentric urban area in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It encompasses a series of cities that form one of Europe's largest urban agglomerations, with a population exceeding 5 million. Here's a detailed look:
Geography and Cities
- The Ruhr Area is centered around the Ruhr River, which gives the region its name.
- Key cities include Dortmund, Essen, Duisburg, Bochum, Gelsenkirchen, Oberhausen, Hagen, Hamm, Herne, and Mülheim an der Ruhr.
- It spans an area of approximately 4,438 square kilometers.
History
- Industrialization: The area became industrial in the 19th century with the discovery of coal deposits. The coal mines fueled the growth of steel and iron industries, leading to rapid urbanization.
- World Wars: During both World Wars, the Ruhr Area was a strategic target due to its industrial significance. It was heavily bombed during World War II.
- Post-War Era: After the war, the region underwent significant rebuilding and economic restructuring, transitioning from heavy industry to more diversified sectors.
- Structural Change: The decline of coal and steel industries from the 1960s onwards led to economic challenges. However, efforts towards economic diversification and environmental cleanup have been successful.
Economy
- Once known as the "industrial heart" of Germany, the Ruhr Area now has a diverse economy including:
- Services, technology, logistics, and culture industries.
- The European Capital of Culture title was awarded to Essen in 2010, highlighting the region's cultural transformation.
Culture and Recreation
- The area is known for its cultural diversity, with numerous theaters, museums, and festivals.
- There are extensive green spaces like the Emscher Landscape Park, which was developed to revitalize former industrial sites.
- Ruhr University Bochum and other educational institutions contribute to the region's cultural and intellectual life.
Transportation
- The Ruhr Area has an extensive public transportation network including trams, subways, and regional trains.
- The Ruhr Express (RE 1) connects many of the cities within the area.
Environmental Transformation
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