Duisburg Inner Harbour Development and Growth

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Silhouette of workers on a construction site with cranes and scaffolding in Saint Petersburg.
Credit: pexels.com, Silhouette of workers on a construction site with cranes and scaffolding in Saint Petersburg.

The Duisburg Inner Harbour has undergone significant development and growth over the years, transforming it into a thriving hub of economic and cultural activity.

In the 1990s, the harbour area was revitalized with a major redevelopment project, which included the construction of new buildings, roads, and infrastructure.

This revitalization effort has paid off, with the harbour now hosting a variety of businesses, including logistics and shipping companies, as well as cultural institutions and attractions.

The harbour's growth has also led to an increase in tourism, with visitors drawn to its vibrant atmosphere and rich history.

History and Heritage

Duisburg Inner Harbour has a rich history dating back to its time as a central harbour of Duisburg.

The Küpper's Mill Museum, located in the Inner harbour, is a centre for Modern and Contemporary Art.

One of the most notable historical buildings in the area is the Werhahn Mill, a redeveloped 19th-century mill that now stands as a testament to the city's industrial past.

Vibrant sunset over Duisburg Inner Harbour showcasing industrial architecture and a serene skyline view.
Credit: pexels.com, Vibrant sunset over Duisburg Inner Harbour showcasing industrial architecture and a serene skyline view.

The Harbour Residential Buildings, also known as Hafenwohnanlagen Duisburg, are located near the Duisburg Canals and offer a glimpse into the area's post-industrial redevelopment.

Here's a list of some of the notable historical buildings in the area:

The area is also home to the Garden of Remembrance, a poignant reminder of the city's Jewish quarter.

Guided Tour and Development

As you explore the Duisburg Inner Harbour, you'll notice the transformation of the area is still ongoing. The western part of the Inner Harbour is being redeveloped, bordering directly onto the historic Altstadt.

The master plan for this area, designed by Foster under contract from the City Council, envisions a transformation similar to the eastern section, which is still being completed. A new building area is planned near the Küppersmühle, where the Museum Küppersmühle will be expanding due to the fusion of the Grothe and Ströher collections.

Behind the office building on the Northern bank, a park is being envisioned to provide a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling harbour area.

Guided Tour

Credit: youtube.com, How to create Guided Tours

A guided tour is an excellent way to explore a new place, and with the right approach, you can make the most of it. Many guided tours are led by knowledgeable locals who can share insider tips and hidden gems.

One of the benefits of a guided tour is that it can help you save time and energy, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than navigating. For example, in some cities, guided tours can help you avoid getting lost in crowded streets.

Guided tours often come with a set itinerary, which can help you stay on track and ensure you don't miss any must-see attractions. This can be especially helpful if you're short on time or have limited mobility.

You can also expect to learn about the local culture and history from your guide, gaining a deeper understanding of the place you're visiting. This can be a great way to broaden your perspective and appreciate the local way of life.

In some cases, guided tours may even offer special perks, such as skip-the-line access or exclusive entry to certain attractions. This can be a huge time-saver and make your experience even more enjoyable.

Progression of Developments

Amazing cityscape of Sydney with famous Opera House and arched Harbour Bridge connecting districts against picturesque cloudy sunset sky
Credit: pexels.com, Amazing cityscape of Sydney with famous Opera House and arched Harbour Bridge connecting districts against picturesque cloudy sunset sky

The Inner Harbour has undergone significant transformations in recent years. A new master plan, designed by Foster, is set to revitalize the western part of the Inner Harbour.

Construction of Eurogate, a semi-elliptical multi-functional building, is expected to begin in 2008. This building will have up to 10 floors and a floor area of about 35,000 m (380,000 sq ft).

A crane overturned and burnt out during the land reclamation process, causing a temporary setback. The project is expected to move forward despite this incident.

The Museum Küppersmühle is planning an extension to accommodate the fusion of the Grothe and Ströher collections. This expansion will provide much-needed space for the museum.

A park is envisioned behind the office building on the Northern bank, adding to the area's green spaces. The Innenhafen-Entwicklungsgesellschaft (Inner Harbour Development Society) will oversee the renovation of the City Centre to coordinate the various development plans.

The Land Archive of NRW will relocate to the Upper Harbour in 2010. The archive currently operates from Düsseldorf and Brühl.

Ruhrort Hafenpfad

Credit: youtube.com, Duisburg Inner Harbour - Port wewnętrzny w Duisburgu

Ruhrort Hafenpfad is a scenic path that takes you through the heart of Duisburg's Inner Harbour. You can start your journey at the Steiger Schifferbörse, a historic spot that dates back to the area's maritime past.

The path winds its way through the harbour, passing by the Ehemaliges Rathaus, a former town hall that now serves as a reminder of the harbour's rich history. You'll also see the Neumarkt, a bustling square that's home to many shops and cafes.

Some of the notable landmarks you'll encounter along the way include the Tausendfensterhaus, a striking building with a unique facade, and the Friedhof – Grabstätte Haniel, a historic cemetery that's the final resting place of the Haniel family, who played a significant role in the development of the harbour.

Heritage Trail 1

The Heritage Trail 1 in Ruhrort is a fantastic way to explore the area's rich history and architecture. You can start your journey at the Küppersmühle, a centre for modern and contemporary art housed in a former mill.

A dockyard at night with lights reflecting over calm waters, capturing a serene industrial scene.
Credit: pexels.com, A dockyard at night with lights reflecting over calm waters, capturing a serene industrial scene.

The trail takes you through the Duisburg Inner Harbour, a former central harbour of the city. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful views of the harbour and its surroundings. The harbour is now a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

One of the most interesting features of the trail is the Holzgracht, a wooden canal built as part of the post-industrial redevelopment of the area. You can see the canal's unique architecture and learn more about its history.

The Werhahn Mill is another highlight of the trail, a beautifully redeveloped 19th-century mill that now serves as a residential building. The mill's historic charm is still evident in its design.

Here's a list of the main stops on the Heritage Trail 1:

  • Küppersmühle (Küpper's Mill Museum)
  • Duisburg Inner Harbour
  • Holzgracht (Wood Canal)
  • Werhahn Mill (Redeveloped nineteenth century mill)
  • Hafenwohnanlagen Duisburg (Harbour Residential Buildings)
  • Kindertagesstätte Hansegracht (Hansegracht Child Day Care Centre)
  • Hansegracht (Hansa Canal)
  • Faktorei 21 (Factor 21, a 1900 storage building reconstructed as offices and a restaurant)

The trail ends at the Faktorei 21, a unique building that showcases the area's industrial heritage. The building's reconstruction as offices and a restaurant is a great example of how old buildings can be repurposed and reused.

Ruhrort Hafenpfad

Credit: youtube.com, Hafen Duisburg Ruhrort - Treffpunkt von Erz u.Kohle (Doku 1948/49)

The Ruhrort Hafenpfad is a great way to explore the history and significance of the harbor area in Ruhrort. This trail takes you through a series of stops that highlight the unique characteristics and features of the area.

One of the first stops on the trail is the Friedrich-Ebert-Brücke, a notable bridge that offers a great view of the harbor. The bridge is also home to the Friedrich-Ebert-Brücke tower, which provides a unique perspective on the surrounding area.

The trail also passes by the Museum der Deutschen Binnenschifffahrt, which showcases the history of inland shipping in Germany. The museum is a great place to learn about the significance of the harbor and its impact on the local economy.

Some of the notable stops on the trail include:

  • Werfthafen – Bunkerhafen
  • Vinckekanal und duisport Duisburger Hafen AG
  • Freihafen
  • Stahlinsel
  • Karl-Lehr-Brücke
  • Rheinorange
  • Ölinsel
  • Kohleninseln
  • Schrottinsel
  • Kohlenkipperfundament
  • Schiffswerften
  • Ruhrschleuse und Ruhrwehr
  • Monopol-Schleppdienst
  • Schleppamt Duisburg
  • Schleuse Meiderich

These stops offer a glimpse into the rich history and industrial significance of the harbor area in Ruhrort. By exploring the Ruhrort Hafenpfad, you can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of the harbor and its impact on the local community.

Duisburg's Harbour

Credit: youtube.com, City center: Lifesaver fountain, windowless building, Inner Harbour | Duisburg | Germany 🇩🇪

Duisburg's Harbour is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. The Inner Harbour is one of the region's most popular destinations, featuring a vibrant mix of bistros, restaurants, and office complexes.

You can easily reach the harbour by bus, taking the lines 934 and 939 to the Hansegracht stop. Alternatively, if you're driving, take the Autobahn 59 exit for Duisburg-Duissern and follow the signs.

The harbour is a hub of urban life and creativity, where post-industrial charm collides with modern vibrancy. This neighbourhood is an eclectic mix waiting to be explored.

For the best snapshot views, head to the roof terrace of the Küppersmühle Museum. And if you're feeling adventurous, explore the harbour on foot or by bike – every turn opens up to a new vista.

Here's a quick guide to help you navigate the harbour:

  • Bus: Line 934 and 939, Hansegracht stop
  • Car: Autobahn 59, exit Duisburg-Duissern, follow signs
  • Getting around: Explore on foot or by bike for the best views

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the Duisburg port?

The Duisburg port covers an area of 89 hectares, equivalent to 220 acres. It's connected to the Rhine River, making it a significant maritime hub.

Where in Germany is Duisburg?

Duisburg is located in the state of North Rhine–Westphalia in western Germany. It's situated at the intersection of the Rhine and Ruhr rivers, near the North Sea coast.

Elmer Kassulke

Lead Assigning Editor

Here is a 100-word author bio for Elmer Kassulke: Elmer Kassulke is an accomplished Assigning Editor with a keen interest in storytelling. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for research, Elmer has covered a wide range of topics, from the Port of Bristol to the works of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Their expertise spans various categories, including geography, history, culture, and transportation, making them a versatile and reliable voice in the world of journalism.

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