Bochum Maps

Bochum is a city in the Ruhr area of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, with a population of around 358,000. Once a major coal mining and steel production center, the city has successfully transformed its economy following the decline of heavy industry. Bochum exemplifies the Ruhr region's shift toward service industries, education, and culture.

The German Mining Museum (Deutsches Bergbau-Museum) is the largest mining museum in the world and features an observation tower constructed from mining headframe equipment. Visitors can explore underground galleries and learn about mining history and technology. The Zeiss Planetarium Bochum, opened in 1964, is one of the most modern planetariums in Europe. The Jahrhunderthalle, a former industrial hall from 1902, now serves as a concert venue and event space.

Ruhr University Bochum, established in 1962, was the first university founded in the Ruhr region and now serves over 40,000 students across a wide range of disciplines. The city is home to numerous theaters, including the acclaimed Schauspielhaus Bochum and the Musiktheater im Revier. The Bermuda Triangle entertainment district offers extensive nightlife options.

Bochum's economy today focuses on service industries, automotive suppliers, and technology companies. The city maintains strong cultural traditions while embracing innovation, with research institutes and business parks occupying former industrial sites. The annual Bochum Total free music festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, showcasing the city's vibrant cultural scene.