The Minister Stein mine was a coal mine founded in 1856. In the 1970’s, the mine was owned by Friedrich Grillo who merged it with a neighbouring mine. In the 1920’s, the mine was expanded with four shafts along with a hammerhead winding tower. The steel mining tower was the fist one in the country. In 1925, a crash disaster killed 136 workers. These workers are remembered even today by a memorial at the mine.

Throughout the second world war, the mine also had a rough patch. However, in 1958, the 7th shaft was added that reached a depth of 780 meters which raised the production substantially. In 1987, the mine was shut down but today you can still take a walk around the place to see the old structures and the towers that once made the mine a force in itself. The grounds look rather haunted but it is one of the most unique spots in the city architecturally.

• By Subway: Zeche Minister Stein
• By renting a Bike.

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