Zeche Zollverein, located in Essen, Germany, is a former coal mine and coking plant that has been transformed into a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural hub. Once one of the largest and most advanced coal mines in the world, it was a key part of Germany’s industrial past before ceasing operations in 1986. Today, Zollverein is known for its striking Bauhaus-inspired architecture, particularly Shaft 12, often called the “most beautiful coal mine in the world.” Visitors can explore industrial history museums, art galleries, and creative spaces, or walk through the expansive grounds that blend history with modern design.
