Movie & TV Filming Locations in Essen, Germany
1. Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex
Once a thriving coal mine, now an UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for shows like 'Dark'.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Germany's industrial past.
- Architectural Interest: Features unique, post-industrial architecture.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides insight into coal mining history and its impact on the region.
2. Grugapark Film Studios
Europe's largest outdoor film studio where shows like 'Homeland' and 'Babylon Berlin' were filmed.
- Film Studio Tour Availability: Offers guided tours of the studios, providing behind-the-scenes insights.
- Variety of Sets: Features a wide variety of film sets, from city streets to period pieces.
- Event Hosting: Hosts events related to the film industry throughout the year.
3. Essen Cathedral (Essener Dom)
This medieval cathedral has been a backdrop for several films and TV series.
- Religious Significance: Serves as a place of worship, offering spiritual experiences.
- Historical Importance: One of the oldest buildings in Essen, dating back to the 13th century.
- Artistic Appreciation: Features stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architectural details.
4. Baldeneysee Lake
This picturesque lake was featured in the film 'The NeverEnding Story'.
- Natural Beauty: Offers a serene, scenic setting for relaxation and leisure activities.
- Recreational Activities: Provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and picnicking.
- Wildlife Observation: Home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
5. Museum Folkwang
This museum was used as a filming location for 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.
- Art Exhibitions: Hosts a variety of contemporary and modern art exhibitions.
- Architectural Beauty: Features a unique, modernist building design by architect Mies van der Rohe.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors.
6. Red Dot Design Museum
This museum was used in the film 'Inception'.
- Design Inspiration: Showcases award-winning designs from around the world.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the designs.
- Architectural Significance: Features a unique, contemporary architectural design by architects Ingenhoven Architects.
7. Krupp-Tower (Krupp-Turm)
This tower was used in the film 'Inception'.
- Historical Significance: Was once part of the Krupp industrial complex and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of Essen and the surrounding area.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides insights into the history of the Krupp family and their industrial empire.
8. Folkwindmill (Volkswindmühle)
This windmill was featured in the film 'The NeverEnding Story'.
- Historical Preservation: One of the oldest standing windmills in Essen.
- Cultural Experience: Offers visitors a glimpse into traditional farming practices and rural life.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides picturesque landscapes for photography enthusiasts.
9. Alten Essen Abbey (Kloster Altenessen)
This abbey was used as a filming location for 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.
- Religious Significance: Actively serves as a convent and Catholic girls' school.
- Historical Importance: Dates back to the 13th century.
- Architectural Interest: Features a Baroque-style church and Gothic-style cloisters.
10. Gruga Stadion
This stadium was used as a filming location for 'The Miracle of Bern'.
- Sports History: Historically significant as the home of Rot-Weiss Essen football club.
- Architectural Significance: Features a unique, modern architectural design.
- Event Hosting: Hosts various sports events and concerts throughout the year.
11. Maschpark
This park was featured in the film 'The Miracle of Bern'.
- Recreational Opportunities: Offers a variety of recreational activities, including sports facilities and playgrounds.
- Natural Beauty: Features beautiful gardens and scenic walking paths.
- Cultural Experience: Includes monuments and sculptures representing Essen's industrial heritage.
12. Essen City Hall (Rathaus Essen)
This building was used as a filming location for 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.
- Architectural Interest: Features a mix of Neo-Renaissance and Modernist architectural styles.
- Civic Function: Serves as the administrative center for Essen city government.
- Historical Significance: Dates back to the late 19th century.
13. Phantasialand Theme Park
While not a filming location itself, Phantasialand has been used as inspiration for films like 'The NeverEnding Story'.
- Entertainment Value: Offers a wide variety of thrilling rides and attractions.
- Themed Areas: Features themed areas representing various parts of fantasy worlds.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Provides activities suitable for all ages and interests.
14. Essen Mining Museum (Zeche Zollverein Mining Museum)
This museum was used as a filming location for 'The NeverEnding Story'.
- Historical Education: Offers insights into Essen's mining history and the industrial revolution.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience coal mining.
- Architectural Significance: Features a unique, industrial architectural design.
15. Aalto-Theater
This theater was used as a filming location for 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.
- Performing Arts: Hosts various stage productions, concerts, and events.
- Architectural Significance: Designed by renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.
- Cultural Experience: Provides opportunities to engage with the local arts scene.