When does the tour take place?

The tour takes place on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 14:00 to 16:15.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is the roundabout in Eppendorf in front of the Sparkasse, Am Thie 23, at the bus stop Eppendorf Mitte.

How much does participation cost?

Participation costs 8 Euro. A reduction is possible.

How long is the route?

The tour covers approximately 6 kilometers.

Which stations will be covered?

Notable topics include the tunnel mine Storksbank, the Engelsburg mine, the Maria Anna & Steinbank mines, and their connection to the steel industry of the Bochum Association.

Is the route suitable for persons with limited mobility?

The route partly goes over unpaved paths. Therefore, good physical fitness and sturdy footwear are required.

Mining Traces Bochum Tour 2026

Name: Tracing the Footsteps of Mining in Eppendorf and Höntrop
Start: 2026-11-15T14:00:00+01:00
End: 2026-11-15T16:15:00+01:00
Location: Kreisverkehr in Eppendorf vor der Sparkasse

Discover Bochum's Mining History on Foot

On November 15, 2026, a historical tour through Eppendorf and Höntrop will lead to visible traces of an industrial history that has shaped Bochum for centuries. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Frank Dengler, participants will experience local history, cultural heritage, and authentic places along an approximately six-kilometer route.

From Tunnel Mining to Large Shaft Facilities

The city tour begins with the early beginnings of the tunnel mine Storksbank from 1738. Next, the development of the Engelsburg mine comes into focus: The first deep mining shafts were created in the 1830s and 1840s. The tour illustrates how mining evolved from small pits to a modern large shaft facility, whose history ended in 1961 with its closure.

Engelsburg, Maria Anna and Steinbank Mines

The route also focuses on the Maria Anna & Steinbank mines and their connection to the steel industry of the Bochum Association. Historical contexts become visible directly in the cityscape, transforming the walk into a vivid discovery experience. Between residential streets, paths, and former industrial sites, a striking image of the region's transformation emerges.

On the Mining Hiking Trail Wattenscheid

The tour follows the Mining Hiking Trail Wattenscheid, which was newly inaugurated after a comprehensive revision in 2020. Partially, the city tour also deviates from the official path, opening up special perspectives on Eppendorf and Höntrop. The approximately six-kilometer route partly traverses unpaved paths and requires good physical fitness.

Insights from First-Hand Experience

Accompanying the group through the historical quarters is an experienced course leader, Dr. Frank Dengler. The tour combines solid expertise with visual communication and shows how closely mining, urban development, and the steel industry are interconnected. Thus, local history becomes tangible and enriches the cultural experience for Bochumers and outside guests.

Conclusion: A City Tour with Depth

The tour offers historical orientation, outdoor exercise, and exciting insights into Bochum's industrial heritage. Those wishing to experience Eppendorf and Höntrop from a new perspective and witness mining history on-site will find an informatively designed city tour with an authentic atmosphere. Participation is limited to 25 people – early registration with the Volkshochschule Bochum is recommended.