Weird & Unusual Attractions in Essen, Germany
1. Phantom Ship of River Ruhr
A ghost ship without a crew, floating mysteriously on the River Ruhr since 1875.
- Unsolved Mystery: The reason for its appearance remains unknown.
- Historical Significance: It's a unique piece of Essen's maritime history.
- Night-time Attraction: Best viewed during the night.
2. Red Cube of Essen
An abstract sculpture by Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, consisting of nine interconnected red cubes.
- Abstract Artwork: It's a unique example of contemporary art in Essen.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can walk inside the cube.
- Night-time Illumination: The cube is beautifully lit up at night.
3. Funky Green Spaceship
A whimsical green spaceship-like building serving as a public library.
- Architectural Wonder: It's an unusual fusion of architecture and art.
- Library with a Twist: A unique place to read, learn and be inspired.
- Public Space: Offers events, workshops, and exhibitions.
4. The Upside-down House
A house that defies gravity with its upside-down design.
- Gravity Defying Architecture: It's an architectural curiosity.
- Photography Opportunity: A perfect spot for unique photos.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can explore rooms from both sides.
5. The Essen Mining Zoo
A zoo built on a former coal mine, home to numerous endangered species.
- Mining Heritage: It combines mining history with wildlife conservation.
- Endangered Species Sanctuary: A chance to see rare and endangered animals up close.
- Underground Tours: Explore the mine tunnels with guided tours.
6. The Red Pencil
A red, sharpened pencil-shaped building used as a daycare center.
- Architectural Innovation: It's an architectural marvel and a symbol of creativity.
- Daycare Center with a Difference: Provides early childhood education in an unusual setting.
- Iconic Landmark: A must-see for any Essen visitor.
7. Essen's Giant Chimney
A colossal steel chimney from the Zeche Zollverein coal mine, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Industrial Heritage: It's a symbol of Essen's industrial past.
- Architectural Masterpiece: A unique example of industrial architecture.
- Museum and Exhibition Space: Inside houses the Zollverein Industrial Complex Museum.
8. The Essen Troll Bridge
A bridge adorned with troll sculptures, adding a whimsical touch to the city.
- Folklore Symbol: It's a modern interpretation of Scandinavian folklore.
- Photography Opportunity: A great spot for unique photos with the troll sculptures.
- Architectural Landmark: Adds charm and character to Essen's urban landscape.
9. The Essen Fish Church
A church with a fish-like design, built in honor of the local fishing industry.
- Religious Architecture: It's an unusual example of religious architecture.
- Fishing Industry Tribute: A tribute to Essen's rich fishing history.
- Interior Beauty: The interior is equally beautiful with intricate designs.
10. The Essen Globe
A giant replica of the Earth located in a park, offering an interactive learning experience.
- Educational Experience: It's a unique way to learn about Earth's geography.
- Interactive Display: Visitors can explore the world from a new perspective.
- Night-time Illumination: The globe is beautifully lit up at night.
11. The Essen Bicycle Bridge
A bridge designed to resemble a bicycle, connecting two parts of the city.
- Architectural Innovation: It's a unique example of functional art.
- Iconic Landmark: A symbol of Essen's cycling culture and urban development.
- Photography Opportunity: A great spot for unique photos with the bicycle bridge.
12. The Essen Rainbow House
A multi-colored house that changes hues with the passing of the day.
- Architectural Innovation: It's a unique expression of color and light.
- Photography Opportunity: A great spot for vibrant, colorful photos.
- Iconic Landmark: Adds a touch of magic to Essen's urban landscape.
13. The Essen Floating Pavilion
A pavilion built on a floating platform in the River Ruhr.
- Architectural Masterpiece: It's an engineering marvel and a symbol of innovation.
- Riverfront Attraction: A unique riverside experience.
- Event Space: Hosts cultural events, concerts and exhibitions.
14. The Essen Spaghetti Junction
A unique interchange system resembling a plate of spaghetti.
- Transportation Wonder: It's an engineering marvel and a symbol of urban development.
- Photography Opportunity: A great spot for unique, abstract photos.
- Iconic Landmark: Adds a touch of quirkiness to Essen's urban landscape.
15. The Essen Skyline Mirror Maze
A maze made of mirrors reflecting Essen's iconic skyline.
- Interactive Experience: It's a fun and challenging activity.
- Photography Opportunity: A great spot for creative, reflective photos.
- Night-time Attraction: The maze is beautifully illuminated at night.