Schurenbachhalde Bramme
1 / 17

Schurenbachhalde Bramme

4.6
·133 reviews·Essen, Germany

Ascend a former coal mining dump to witness Richard Serra's monumental 'Bramme' sculpture and enjoy panoramic Ruhr views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear weather afternoons

Best views and light for photos

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Schurenbachhalde Bramme

Schurenbachhalde Bramme

Best Time

Clear weather afternoons

Best views and light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend a former coal mining dump to witness Richard Serra's monumental 'Bramme' sculpture and enjoy panoramic Ruhr views.

4.6
(133 reviews)

"This dump is truly unique! You have a great view, and the artwork is really impressive!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The surface is unpaved gravel. Comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant walk.

📸 Capture the Art & Views

Great spot for photographers! Play with industrial backgrounds, the sculpture, and the sun.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Richard Serra's Bramme

Richard Serra's Bramme

A monumental 14-meter steel sculpture, a striking symbol of the Ruhr's industrial past and artistic future.

Panoramic Ruhr Area Views

Panoramic Ruhr Area Views

From the summit, enjoy breathtaking vistas of industrial landmarks, nature, and distant cities on a clear day.

Industrial Heritage Hike

Industrial Heritage Hike

Explore the unique landscape of a former coal mining dump, offering a tangible connection to the region's history.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Ascend for Epic Views

The Schurenbachhalde offers stunning panoramic views of the Ruhr area, especially on clear days. Access is via stairs or bike paths, making it an accessible hike for most. Wear comfortable shoes as the surface is unpaved.

The Iconic 'Bramme'

Richard Serra's imposing steel sculpture, 'Bramme für das Ruhrgebiet,' is the centerpiece. While some find it a 'boring piece of steel,' others are captivated by its raw industrial presence and the artistic interplay with the landscape.

Best Times

When
Clear weather afternoons
Why
Best views and light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#inlineskating #minishetty #ziehenlassen #freizeitreiter #malwasneues #schurenbachhalde #gelsenkirchen
@chakalaka2015
84.6K likes • 775.1K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The surface is unpaved gravel. Comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant walk. Reddit

📸 Capture the Art & Views

Great spot for photographers! Play with industrial backgrounds, the sculpture, and the sun. Reddit

Oben auf der Schurenbachhalde – wo der Ruhrpott den Himmel berührt Es gibt diese Orte, die auf den ersten Blick unscheinbar wirken – und dich dann plötzlich mit voller Wucht packen. Die Schurenbachhalde in Essen ist genau so ein Ort. Ein Stück Ruhrgebiet, das Geschichte atmet und gleichzeitig den Blick freigibt auf eine Zukunft voller Natur, Wandel und Ruhe. Als ich mich auf den Weg mache, ist d...
potteinander
93 likes • 2.9K views
Eine gigantische Stahlplatte hat Richard Serra fast senkrecht auf das Plateau der Essener Schurenbachhalde gestellt. Mit 85 ist der US-amerikanische Bildhauer nun gestorben. Zeit für einen Besuch etwa mit der Musikerin Maria Trautmann, die wir vor einiger Zeit bei einem ungewöhnlichen Konzert an Serras „Bramme“ mit der Kamera begleitet haben. Film: Markus J. Feger @mpj_trautmann #richardserra #sch...
kulturkennernrw
63 likes • 3.2K views

🚴‍♀️ Bike Path Access

Easily accessible by bike, with paths leading directly to the summit. Reddit

⬆️ Easy Stair Access

Climbable via stairs, making it accessible for many visitors. Reddit

Entdeckungstour über mehrere Halden Halde 22, Halde Mathias Stinnes, Schurenbachhalde mit Bramme, Carbon Obelisk und Mottbruchhalde #ruhrgebiet #fahradtour #halden #sonne #sun #schurenbachhalde #bramme #ruhrpott #carbon #carbonobelisk #pottfluencer
holgerschultezurhausen
25 likes • 226 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The surface is unpaved gravel. Comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant walk. Reddit

📸 Capture the Art & Views

Great spot for photographers! Play with industrial backgrounds, the sculpture, and the sun. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Bike Path Access

Easily accessible by bike, with paths leading directly to the summit. Reddit

⬆️ Easy Stair Access

Climbable via stairs, making it accessible for many visitors. Reddit

🧐 Explore Beyond the Bramme

Discover other nearby landmarks like Hercules and the Himmelstreppe. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(133 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Schurenbachhalde for its unique industrial art and breathtaking panoramic views of the Ruhr area. While some find the central sculpture less inspiring, the overall experience of hiking the former mining dump and soaking in the vistas is highly recommended, with many eager to return.

"The climb is definitely worth it; it's easy to reach via the stairs! It's beautiful to hike around."

Jennifer Isenberg

"This dump can be climbed without oxygen. In good weather, you have a good view of Haniel and Schalke."

Horst Fiedler

"This dump is truly unique! You have a great view, and the artwork is really impressive! If I could give more than 5 stars, I definitely would! I'm already looking forward to my next visit!"

Hendrik Nowak

What People Like

Impressive panoramic views
Unique industrial artwork
Worthwhile hike

What People Dislike

Sculpture's perceived simplicity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Schurenbachhalde by car, bike, or public transport. Parking is available nearby, and bike paths lead directly to the site. Stairs provide pedestrian access to the summit. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the base of the halle, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While direct public transport to the very top might be limited, you can take buses or trains to nearby stations and then walk or cycle the remaining distance. Check local transport schedules for the best routes. Reddit

The main paths are unpaved gravel, which may pose challenges for wheelchairs. The stairs are not accessible. It's best to check recent conditions or contact local authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

The Schurenbachhalde is integrated into the cycling network of the Ruhr area. Look for signs indicating routes through industrial heritage sites. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the Schurenbachhalde and the Bramme sculpture is free of charge. It's an open-air public space. Reddit

As an outdoor public space, the Schurenbachhalde is generally accessible at all times. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for the Bramme sculpture or the Schurenbachhalde itself. It's a free public art installation and viewpoint. Reddit

While there might not be official daily tours, local organizations or art groups sometimes offer guided explorations of the Ruhr area's industrial art, including the Bramme. Instagram

Visiting at night is possible as it's an open area, but it's not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Daylight hours offer the best and safest experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers dramatic lighting for the Bramme sculpture and the surrounding landscape. Clear days provide the best panoramic views. Instagram

You can capture the imposing scale of the steel sculpture against the sky, the textures of the rust and graffiti, and the expansive views of the Ruhr area. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local laws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone in this area. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sculpture and the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant landmarks. Instagram

Yes, visitors are often photographed interacting with the sculpture or enjoying the view. Be mindful of personal space and privacy. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The 'Bramme für das Ruhrgebiet' is a massive, 14-meter-high steel slab created by artist Richard Serra, symbolizing the region's industrial heritage. Instagram

On a clear day, you can see a vast panorama of the Ruhr area, including landmarks like the Romberg, Beckstrasse/Tetrahedron, and Hoheward with its horizon observatory. Reddit

A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how much you want to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the views. Reddit

There are typically no facilities directly on the halle itself. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase refreshments before your visit. Reddit

The surface is primarily unpaved gravel and can be uneven. It's a former mining dump, so expect a natural, rugged landscape. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Schurenbachhalde offers an adventurous outing for families. The climb up the halle, whether via stairs or a gentle slope, can be an exciting mini-hike for children. The vast open space at the top provides room to run around, and the impressive Bramme sculpture is sure to spark their imagination. It's a great opportunity to talk about the region's industrial history in a hands-on way. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Reddit

Key recommendations for families:
* Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for navigating the unpaved terrain.
* Pack plenty of water and snacks.
* Bring a camera to capture the unique landscape and the imposing sculpture.
* Consider a bike ride if your children are comfortable cycling on paths.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, the Schurenbachhalde presents a unique landscape shaped by industrial activity. The ascent is rewarding, offering not just the artistic centerpiece but also a chance to observe how nature is gradually reclaiming the land. The unpaved paths provide a natural hiking experience, and the panoramic views are a significant draw. It's a great spot for birdwatching or simply enjoying the open air away from urban bustle. Reddit

Tips for hikers:
* Combine your visit with other nearby Halden for a longer trekking experience. Instagram
* Check weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly.
* Bring binoculars to spot distant landmarks and wildlife.

📸 Photographers

The Schurenbachhalde is a photographer's dream, offering a blend of industrial art, expansive landscapes, and dramatic skies. The Bramme sculpture provides a strong focal point, and its interaction with light and shadow throughout the day is captivating. Photographers can experiment with different angles, compositions, and times of day to capture the essence of the Ruhr's industrial heritage. InstagramReddit

Photography tips:
* Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic lighting on the sculpture and landscape.
* Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the Bramme and the panoramic views.
* Look for interesting textures on the sculpture and the gravelly terrain.
* Consider long exposures during twilight for a unique atmospheric effect.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Ruhr: Richard Serra's Bramme

The centerpiece of the Schurenbachhalde is Richard Serra's monumental steel sculpture, 'Bramme für das Ruhrgebiet.' Erected in 1998, this imposing 14-meter-high slab of steel stands as a powerful testament to the region's industrial past and its ongoing transformation. Serra, known for his large-scale, site-specific works, chose this location to engage with the history of coal mining and the vast landscapes shaped by human activity. The sculpture's raw, unadorned form and its interaction with the elements, including rust and graffiti, invite contemplation on themes of permanence, decay, and the enduring spirit of the Ruhr. Instagram+1

While some visitors describe the Bramme as a 'relatively boring piece of steel,' its impact is often subjective and tied to an appreciation for industrial art and the context of its placement. Photographers find it a compelling subject, using the sculpture as a focal point against the backdrop of the Ruhr's industrial skyline or the open sky. The artwork's presence transforms the former mining dump into a destination, encouraging visitors to ascend and engage with the landscape in a new way. Reddit

The 'Bramme' is more than just a sculpture; it's a landmark that anchors the Schurenbachhalde experience. It serves as a starting point for exploring the surrounding area and a symbol of the Ruhr's commitment to integrating art into its post-industrial environment. Its starkness contrasts with the natural beauty that is slowly reclaiming the land, creating a dialogue between human intervention and nature's resilience. Instagram

Exploring the Ruhr's Industrial Heritage

The Schurenbachhalde is part of a broader network of former mining dumps and industrial sites across the Ruhr region that have been transformed into cultural and recreational spaces. These 'Halden' offer a unique perspective on the area's history, providing elevated viewpoints and a tangible connection to the legacy of coal mining. Visitors can often access these sites via well-maintained paths, making them ideal for hiking, cycling, and photography. Instagram

Beyond the Bramme, the Schurenbachhalde itself provides a fascinating landscape to explore. The unpaved, gravelly surface and the sheer scale of the dump are a reminder of the immense labor involved in its creation. On clear days, the panoramic views from the summit are a major draw, offering vistas of other industrial landmarks, parks, and the urban sprawl of the Ruhr. This makes it a prime spot for understanding the geographical and historical context of the region. Reddit

Many of these industrial heritage sites are interconnected, allowing for multi-day explorations. For instance, the Schurenbachhalde can be part of a larger tour that includes other notable Halden and art installations, such as the Hercules sculpture overlooking Nordsternpark or the Himmelstreppe. This integrated approach to preserving and presenting the Ruhr's industrial past makes it a rich destination for those interested in history, art, and landscape. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2