The German Mining Museum in Bochum is the world's largest mining museum and is one of the most visited museums in Germany with around 400,000 visitors a year. Since it was founded in 1930, the museum has developed steadily and surprises visitors with interesting exhibitions on mining, mining archaeology and mining history. The large, green winding tower that rises above the museum building can be recognised from afar. This was originally part of the Germania Dortmund colliery and is now one of Bochum's most recognisable landmarks. At a height of 71.4 metres, it offers a fantastic panoramic view over the Ruhr region (closed for restoration until the end of 2024).

Exciting experiences "underground"

The real action, however, takes place underground: The tour of the German Mining Museum takes place in the demonstration mine at a depth of 20 metres. The rope access simulator conveys the feeling of travelling 1200 metres deep into the earth. Once at the bottom, the warm temperatures provide a realistic introduction to the conditions underground and the tour begins through numerous tunnels alongside large drilling machines. Please note: Until the end of 2024, the exhibition mine can only be reached via 120 steps.

History you can touch

The German Mining Museum provides a close-up look at the everyday life of a miner. Many of the machines on display are set in motion at the push of a button and touching them is definitely encouraged. In addition to a regular short tour of the exhibition mine, special guided tours are also offered, during which even former miners give authentic accounts of their work. The "Night in the Mine" tour also offers the opportunity to explore the mine with a helmet and head torch.
In addition, the German Mining Museum delights visitors with exciting lectures, practical workshops for adults and special offers for children and school classes.