Germany – Saarland (Saarbrücken) September 12, 2019
Völklingen Ironworks. This immense smelter was begun in 1881 and completed in 1883 and closed in 1986. It was a critical part of the industrialization of Germany during the 20th century. At its peak, 17,000 people worked here. Initially it made steel for railway tracks and then steel girders for building construction. By-products of making iron like fertilizer and tar were an important part of the business. During WW II it was involved in armament production including helmets and after produced much of the steel necessary to rebuild Germany.
In 1994, it was the first industrial site in any country to be listed as a World Heritage Site. Today it is an active museum showcasing the making of iron and tour the production areas, a jungle of pipes, metal tracks, huge silos, chimneys and metal. There are more than 6kms of pathways possible: sintering shed, burden shed and coking plant that can be explored independently. A must is climbing to the top of the platform. There are also constantly changing art and history exhibits. €17
NOMAD MANIA Germany – Saarland (Saarbrücken) September 12, 2019
World Heritage Sites: Völklingen Ironworks
Borders
France-Germany
Germany-Luxembourg
European Cities
SAABRÜCKEN
Airports: Saarbrücken (SCN)
Railway, Metro, Funiculars, Cable Cars: Saarbahn
Museums
Saar Historical Museum
Saarland Museum
Zoos: Saarbrücken Zoo