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Essen

Forged in Steel: The Krupp Empire and the Soul of Essen

7.5 km185 min8 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Step into the shadow of industrial titans. For over a century, the Krupp family did not just operate in Essen; they consumed it, building a 'forbidden city' of steel that shaped global warfare and modern capitalism. On this immersive walking tour, you will uncover the staggering scale of the Krupp legacy, from their humble ancestral home to the gleaming modern headquarters built upon poisoned, reclaimed earth. We will explore the paradox of their paternalistic empire—which offered workers unprecedented security at the cost of absolute loyalty—and trace the city's dramatic transformation from a polluted forge into a vibrant, green metropolis.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

ThyssenKrupp Hauptquartier (Q1)

The modern corporate headquarters of ThyssenKrupp, built directly upon the historic grounds of the original cast steel factory.

ThyssenKrupp Hauptquartier (Q1)

Pic by Tuxyso on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.90 km • 14 min
2

STOP 2

Stammhaus Krupp

The reconstructed ancestral home of the Krupp family, offering a stark contrast to the massive modern headquarters.

Stammhaus Krupp

Pic by kaʁstn on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.27 km • 4 min
3

STOP 3

Tiegelgussdenkmal

A monument commemorating the invention of crucible steel, the technological breakthrough that launched the Krupp empire.

Tiegelgussdenkmal

Pic by Tuxyso on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.82 km • 13 min
4

STOP 4

Krupp-Park (Nord)

A sprawling modern park built on former industrial wasteland, showcasing Essen's ecological transformation.

1.53 km • 24 min
5

STOP 5

Site of Siedlung Kronenberg

The former site of a massive Krupp worker settlement, illustrating the company's complex system of paternalism and control.

1.73 km • 27 min
6

STOP 6

Colosseum Theater

A beautifully preserved former Krupp mechanical workshop, now transformed into a grand theater.

Colosseum Theater

Pic by Raimond Spekking on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

1.36 km • 21 min
7

STOP 7

Gewerkschaftshaus Essen

The historic Trade Union House, representing the labor movement's struggle against Krupp's corporate dominance.

0.93 km • 14 min
8

END

Kreuzeskirche

A historic Protestant church that served the Krupp workers, highlighting the intersection of faith and industrial power.

Kreuzeskirche

Pic by Wiki05 on Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, urban explorers, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of industrial capitalism, labor rights, and urban transformation.
  • Best time Daytime, particularly late morning or early afternoon, to fully appreciate the architectural contrasts and the greenery of Krupp-Park.
  • Comfortable Footwear This is a substantial walk through varied urban terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must.
  • Weather Prep Essen's weather can be unpredictable. Bring an umbrella or a light rain jacket just in case.
  • Photography The contrast between the historic Stammhaus and the modern Q1 building is a photographer's dream. Have your camera ready.
  • Pacing Take your time in Krupp-Park. It is a massive space and perfect for a short rest halfway through the tour.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Tom Bennett
Audio sample
0:000:00

Tom Bennett

  • Urbanism, Infrastructure & Innovation
  • Northern England

Architecture and urban planning professional. Explains the city's hidden systems – from mobility to water pipes – clearly and vividly.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

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