Discover Dortmund: history, enjoyment and green insider tips

Discover Dortmund: history, enjoyment and green insider tips

Welcome to Dortmund, a city that is often overshadowed by its larger neighbors but has so much to offer! Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover or a sports fan - Dortmund has something for everyone. The vibrant metropolis in the heart of the Ruhr area is not only known for its impressive football history, but also for its diverse cultural scene and the green oases that shape the cityscape. In this article we take you on a journey of discovery through Dortmund's diverse facets: from the city's fascinating history to the culinary highlights it has to offer, to insider tips that will make your stay unforgettable. Immerse yourself in the world of Dortmund and let yourself be inspired by this charming city!

Discover Dortmund's history

Dortmund, a city with a rich history, offers a fascinating journey through the centuries. Founded in 882, Dortmund initially developed as a trading city and was located on the most important trade routes of the Middle Ages. Over the centuries it grew into an important economic center, particularly in the steel and coal industries. Today, Dortmund is known not only for its industrial roots, but also for its transformative development in recent decades.

The city experienced a boom in the 19th century due to the Industrial Revolution. More and more people moved to the city to find work in the numerous factories. This led to rapid population growth and had a major impact on the cityscape. Industrial developments paved the way for the founding of the famous Borussia Dortmund club in 1909, which over the course of its history became one of the most famous football clubs in the world.

An important milestone in Dortmund's history was the Second World War. The city was heavily bombed and many historic buildings were destroyed. Post-war reconstruction posed a major challenge, but Dortmund overcame it with determination. Innovative construction projects and the focus on modern urban development have helped Dortmund shine in new splendor today.

Important historical sites in Dortmundare among others:

• Das Dortmunder U: Ein bedeutendes Wahrzeichen, das früher das Brauerei-Haus der Union-Brauerei war und heute ein Zentrum für Kunst und Kreativität beherbergt.
• Der Westenhellweg: Eine der ältesten Einkaufsstraßen Deutschlands, die Zeugen zahlreicher geschichtlicher Ereignisse war.
• Die Reinoldikirche: Diese beeindruckende Kirche aus dem 13. Jahrhundert ist die älteste Kirche Dortmunds und ein Beispiel gotischer Architektur.
• Das Museum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte: Hier kann man mehr über die künstlerische und kulturelle Entwicklung der Region erfahren.

Dortmund is also proud of its industrial culture, which is documented in various museums and memorials. The Museum of Art and Cultural History shows a variety of exhibits depicting the city's development from the Middle Ages to modern times.

An interesting initiative is the “Route of Industrial Culture”, which brings together various historical locations of former industry and gives visitors the opportunity to gain deeper insights into Dortmund’s past and industrial evolution. With kilometers of hiking and cycling trails, the history of the city can be explored in a very special way.

The combination of tradition and modernity makes Dortmund a unique travel destination. Art and cultural events in the city reflect this duality. The annual “Dortmund City Festival” celebrates not only the history of the city, but also the modern culture and the diversity of its residents. It is a festival where residents and visitors can experience Dortmund's living history through music, street art and culinary offerings.

The historical panorama is rounded off by the numerous events that are organized all year round, including markets, exhibitions and festivals that focus on Dortmund's rich history as well as its lively present. There is always a reason to celebrate and feel the liveliness of the city.

Whether you're interested in its industrial past or want to explore the city's cultural highlights, Dortmund offers a rich and diverse history just waiting to be discovered.

Culinary highlights of the city

Dortmund offers a diverse and exciting culinary landscape that includes both traditional and modern influences. Countless restaurants, cafés and snack bars that make gastronomy a real experience invite you to discover regional and international delicacies. Here are some culinary highlights and special dishes that you shouldn't miss in Dortmund.

1. Traditional Dortmund cuisine

Dortmund cuisine has deep-rooted traditions. The most famous dishes include:

• Grüne Soße: Ein frisches Kräutergewürz, das oft als Beilage zu Fleischgerichten serviert wird.
• Pfefferpotthast: Ein herzhaftes Rindfleischgericht, das gerne im Winter genossen wird.
• Westfälischer Schinken: Ein geräucherter Schinken, der nach traditioneller Art hergestellt wird und ideal zu einem frisch gebackenem Brot passt.

2. Dortmund specialty markets

A visit to one of the many markets in Dortmund is an absolute must for foodies. The market square in the city center and the weekly market in the northern part of the city offer a wide range of regional products. Here you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods and even handicrafts. The atmosphere is lively and the opportunity to taste local products makes visiting the market a unique experience.

3. International flair

Dortmund is not only known for its German cuisine. Thanks to the multicultural society, there are numerous restaurants that offer international dishes. Here are some culinary destinations in the city:

• Asiatische Küche: Genießen Sie authentische vietnamesische Pho oder thailändisches Curry in einem der vielen asiatischen Restaurants.
• Italienische Köstlichkeiten: Von Pizza bis hin zu frischer Pasta – italienische Restaurants sind in Dortmund weit verbreitet.
• Orientalische Spezialitäten: Probieren Sie kreative Kebabs oder traditionelle Hummus-Gerichte in den vielen orientalischen Imbissen.

4. Brewing culture and beer

Dortmund has a long brewing tradition that is closely linked to the city's history. Try the famous Dortmunder Exportbier, a light lager that originated here. Visit the large breweries such as Dortmunder Union or Märzenbräu, where you can experience tours and tastings. A visit to the beer garden is also a highlight where you can enjoy the local art of brewing.

5. Sweets and cafe culture

Dortmund's cafés and pastry shops are perfect for a sweet break. Try one of the following treats:

• Rüebli-Torte: Eine saftige Karottentorte, die mit zartem Frischkäse-Frosting serviert wird.
• Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte: Eine klassische deutsche Dessert-Spezialität, die in vielen Cafés zu finden ist.
• Berliner: Ein gefüllter Krapfen, der eine süße Versuchung darstellt.

In Dortmund's rustic cafés you can not only enjoy the delicacies, but also experience the relaxed atmosphere of the city.

6. Street food and snacks

The iconic snack bars and food trucks in Dortmund offer a variety of quick but tasty dishes. Take a look at:

• Currywurst: Ein beliebter street food Klassiker, der überall in der Stadt erhältlich ist.
• Döner Kebap: Genießen Sie diese türkische Spezialität, die sich in Dortmund großer Beliebtheit erfreut.
• Bier vom Fass: In vielen Imbissen gehört ein kühles Bier einfach dazu, speziell in den Sommermonaten.

Whether at one of the thriving markets, in a rustic restaurant or in a modern café – Dortmund has something to offer for every taste. There is also the perfect mix of tradition and innovation that makes the city's culinary scene so unique. Visit the city and be inspired by the diverse flavors!

The green side of Dortmund: parks and gardens

Dortmund is known not only for its industrial past and passionate football heritage, but also for its impressive green spaces. The city offers a variety of parks and gardens, providing an oasis of peace and relaxation for both locals and visitors. These green retreats are ideal for walks, picnics or simply relaxing in nature.

This is a real insider tipWestphalia Park, which extends to the south of Dortmund. With its beautiful gardens, spacious meadows and melancholic rose garden, this park is a popular destination for families and nature lovers. Particularly impressive is the Florarium, a unique greenhouse that immerses visitors in the blaze of color of tropical plants.

This is a particularly beautiful place for nature loversRomberg Park. This extensive green space is a perfect place for relaxing walks and also features a botanical garden that features a variety of plant species from around the world. The meadows and ponds in Rombergpark are an ideal place to spend an afternoon outdoors while the children run around in the playgrounds.

• Westfalenpark: 60 Hektar große Parkanlage mit Rosengärten und dem Florarium.
• Rombergpark: Botanischer Garten mit Pflanzen aus aller Welt.
• Fredenbaumpark: Entspannende Grünfläche mit einem schönen See und viel Platz zum Spielen.

Another notable park is theFredenbaum Park. With its extensive meadows, shady trees and a picturesque lake, it is the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon. Here, visitors can not only relax, but also enjoy numerous leisure activities, such as jogging, cycling or simply reading a good book while enjoying the fresh air.

For those looking for a more active experience, theCity gardena true gem in the center of Dortmund. This green oasis offers a variety of events and activities, such as concerts and markets, as well as a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Ideal picnic spots invite you to take a break while enjoying the lively atmosphere around you.

Not to be forgottenHoringer Forest, a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. This forest area offers numerous hiking and cycling trails that lead through picturesque landscapes. Here you can enjoy the fresh air and explore the variety of flora and fauna that are native to this forest.

The parks and gardens in Dortmund are not only a highlight for nature lovers, but also an expression of city life. They offer both locals and visitors a space to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Whether you want to spend a quiet afternoon or be active, Dortmund's green side has something to offer for everyone. Further information about the city's green spaces can be found on the official website of the city of Dortmund: dortmund.de.

Sport and passion: Borussia Dortmund and more

Dortmund, the vibrant city in the heart of the Ruhr area, is known not only for its industrial past, but also for its strong sports culture. At the forefront of this passion is theBorussia Dortmund ball game club, better known as BVB. The club was founded in 1909 and has since developed into one of the most successful football clubs in Germany.

BVB's home games in the legendarySignal Iduna Park, formerly known as Westfalenstadion, are a must for every football fan. With a capacity of over 81,000 spectators and a unique atmosphere, the club not only attracts local supporters, but also fans from all over the world. The famous “South Stand”, also known as the “yellow wall”, is considered the largest standing stand in Europe and provides an impressive backdrop during games.

The passion for BVB is deeply rooted in Dortmund society, and the city is bathed in a sea of ​​black and yellow during games. The fan culture is remarkable, with various fan clubs meeting regularly to watch games together and support the team. The club has a great responsibility in the community and is often involved in social projects that focus on both youth development and integration.

It's not just football that excites Dortmunders; Other sports also find great interest. Sports clubs in Dortmund offer a wide range of activities, from basketball to handball to table tennis. This is particularly remarkableTHW Kiel, which is considered one of the best handball clubs in Germany and regularly plays in Dortmund. Those tooDortmund ice hockey teamhas a loyal fan base that follows the games passionately.

The city also regularly hosts major sporting events that attract both amateur and professional athletes. For example, find inFritz Haber Sports CenterThe international table tennis championships take place, attracting participants from all over the world. The city is also known for its running events, including theMarathon Dortmund, which mobilizes numerous runners and spectators every year.

To get to know BVB better, a visit is recommendedBVB Museumdefinitely recommended. Here you can discover the history of the club, numerous trophies and stories about the greatest players and coaches. A feast for every football enthusiast, the museum features interactive exhibitions that appeal to both children and adults.

A look at BVB's successes shows how important the club is for Dortmund's identity. The list of titles and trophies includes multiple Bundesliga championships, DFB Cup victories and the glorious triumph in the UEFA Champions League in 1997. These successes make BVB one of the most recognized clubs in Europe.

The enthusiasm for sport and the strong anchoring of BVB in Dortmund's culture make the city a special place for sports lovers. Even though football is the main attraction, the passion goes far beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch. The city offers a wealth of activities for sports enthusiasts who are always ready to celebrate their fan culture and nurture new talent.

Cultural highlights: museums and events

Dortmund is known not only for its impressive football culture and industrial roots, but also for a rich cultural offering that appeals to both locals and visitors. The city is home to a variety of museums, galleries and events that showcase a wide range of artistic and cultural expressions.

An outstanding destination for art lovers is the Ostwall Museum, located in the Dortmunder U. This museum offers a comprehensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by notable 20th-century artists. The architectural beauty of the Dortmunder U itself, a former brewery building converted into a cultural center, is worth a visit. Regularly changing exhibitions take place here, dedicated to different topics and artists.

Another fascinating museum is the German Football Museum, which documents the history of football in Germany. The interactive exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the evolution of the sport, legendary players and unforgettable games. For every football fan, this museum is an absolute must and a place full of emotions and memories.

Dortmund is also known for its lively art scene. The Hartware MedienKunstVerein (HMKV) specializes in contemporary media art and offers a platform for innovative artists. The changing exhibitions deal with current topics and media forms and promote dialogue between art and society. Here visitors can discover both international and local artists.

The city hosts numerous events throughout the year that enrich cultural life. A highlight is the Dortmund city festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. With live music, food stalls and a colorful supporting program, the city festival is a place where the community meets and celebrates. There is also a lot to experience for families, from children's activities to a wide range of dining options.

In summer, the Dortmund Bridge Festival attracts art and music lovers. The event takes place at various bridges around the city and provides a platform for live performances, installations and creative workshops. It is a perfect opportunity to explore the quiet corners of the city while enjoying art and music in a unique setting.

Another cultural highlight is the World Art Center, which presents a magnificent collection of contemporary art from different regions of the world. Not only are exhibitions shown here, but also cultural events and workshops that promote exchange between cultures.

For those who are interested in the theater and music scene, there is the Schauspiel Dortmund. This traditional stage offers an exciting program of classical plays, modern dramas and locally produced performances. The variety of performances ensures that there is something for every taste. A special highlight are the regular opera performances at Theater Dortmund, which bring both local and international talent to the stage.

When we talk about museums and events in Dortmund, we must not forget the art and culture vernissage in the Dortmund City Garden. This unique event combines art, music and cuisine in a beautiful outdoor location. It is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the city's creative atmosphere.

In addition, Dortmund also organizes many Christmas markets that take place during Advent. Here visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, buy handmade gifts and taste typical delicacies such as mulled wine and stollen.

To better capture the cultural highlights of Dortmund, here is a brief overview of some of the most important museums and events in the city:

The cultural highlights in Dortmund offer something for everyone and make the city a lively and fascinating place. No matter whether you love art, music or theater, Dortmund has the right event or museum to pique your interest and give you unforgettable impressions.

Insider tips for an unforgettable stay

Dortmund, a city that is often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, has a lot to offer that goes beyond the usual tourist path. If you are planning an unforgettable stay in this diverse city, you should include the following insider tips in your itinerary:

• Immergrüne Kneipen und Biergärten: Besuchen Sie die örtlichen Kneipen in der Nordstadt oder im Kreuzviertel. Diese versteckten Schätze bieten nicht nur eine großartige Auswahl an lokalen Biersorten, sondern auch eine entspannte Atmosphäre, die perfekt ist, um mit Einheimischen ins Gespräch zu kommen.
• Kunst im öffentlichen Raum: Dortmund beherbergt viele faszinierende Kunstinstallationen im Freien. Ein Rundgang durch das Künstlerhaus und den stadionnahen Park am Signal Iduna Park offenbart beeindruckende Werke, die die Kreativität der Stadt widerspiegeln.
• Verborgene Höhlen: Wussten Sie, dass Dortmund unterirdische Bunker und Höhlen hat? Einige Touren ermöglichen es Ihnen, faszinierende Einblicke in die Geschichte der Stadt zu erhalten. Eine empfehlenswerte Tour ist die „Dortmunder Unterwelten“.
• Street Art entdecken: Der Stadtteil Unionviertel ist eine Hochburg für Street Art. Hier können Sie farbenfrohe Wandmalereien und kreative Graffiti-Kunstwerke finden, die u.a. von internationalen Künstlern stammen. Ein perfektes Fotomotiv!

Another unexpected highlight is theZollern colliery, a former mining site that is now an impressive industrial monument. Here you can learn about the history of mining in the region and admire the beautiful architecture of the old machine hall. Also visit the various exhibitions, which are constantly updated to celebrate the industrial heritage.

Secret places for nature lovers

Dortmund also has true natural paradises off the beaten track of most travelers. It's a hidden gemRomberg Park. This park impresses with its botanical gardens and a beautiful Japanese garden. Here you can take a wonderful walk and enjoy the peace and quiet while admiring the different types of plants.

Another piece of nature is thisFredenbaum Park, where you can enjoy numerous outdoor activities, from cycling to boating. An unforgettable experience is a ride on a pedal boat on the small lake.

Unusual museums and exhibitions

The city is also for hersometimes unusual museumsknown. TheGerman Football Museumshould be a must, but don't forget <>www.fussballmuseum.de<>, that tooHouse of Historyto visit. In this museum, the history of the Federal Republic of Germany is presented in a fascinating and interactive way.

Hidden culinary delights

Culinary opportunities can be found everywhere, but there are some particularly recommended places that are not in the guidebook. Try theseBerlin kebab, a real street food gem in the city. Another insider tip is the restaurantSteam miller, which is housed in an old coach house and offers an excellent selection of regional specialties.

If you like the traditional DortmunderKraft beerIf you want to experience it, visit theSausage shop. Here you will immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Dortmund and be treated to tasty sausage variations.

Events outside the mainstream

Dortmund has many events that are often overlooked. ThePack singing, which is offered regularly at various locations in the city, attracts both locals and tourists and creates a great atmosphere. Another interesting event is theExtra layer, a night of industrial culture that brings together numerous locations in the region where art, music and gastronomy are in the foreground.

A chic café with history

Have you ever been inCafé Liesesat? This charming café is located in an old villa and offers delicious coffee and cake specialties while you can enjoy the nostalgic charm of the place. It's the perfect place to take a break while exploring the city.

In summary, Dortmund has more to offer than just its well-known attractions. These insider tips will help you experience the city from a new perspective and connect with its unique culture, history and community.