Dortmund

Living in Dortmund isn’t quite all parties, pils and parks.
Moreover, steel plants and coal mines are a mere relic of the past. Over the past decades, Dortmund has metamorphosed into a park-dotted and tree-lined service center.

Banks, insurance and trade companies as much as the university with its adjacent technology park and numerous IT companies dominate the city’s economic life together with the breweries and an increasing number of logistics companies.

Did you know ...
that for many years Dortmund has ceased to produce coal?
that Dortmund has become a foremost urban service center?
that Dortmund consists of 50% green areas such as parks, lawns and gardens?
that Dortmund is a center of cultural activity in the region?

Multicultural Dortmund

Foreigners settle in pretty smoothly. Why that is?

Dortmund has been a cultural melting pot since the inception of its modern tradition. In the 19th century, when the city turned from a sleepy spot into an industrial metropolis within a few years, people from all over Germany and Europe came here to seek their fortune. The process was repeated after WW II when the flourishing industry attracted workers from all over the world.

In Dortmund you don’t have to go far if you want to eat out at Chinese or Turkish restaurants, listen to Korean or Italian music, or purchase Greek and Arabic delicatassen. In this city every little club boasts a multicultural flair.

Sports and Leisure

Naturally, most sport activities in Dortmund revolve around soccer. The local club, Borussia Dortmund, is a major actor in the city’s life, and the Westphalia Stadium is a meeting place for everyone from doctors to unemployment benefit recipients. In 2006 there will be yet another world cup in Germany. Back in 1974, this stadium specifically
built for the last world cup in Germany witnessed a gigantic party with fans from Zaire, Scotland, the Netherlands
and Brazil. We’re already looking forward to the next world cup party in 2006!

Real fans are distinguished by their “cowl”, the jacket adorned with club banners and players’ signatures. For a diehard Borussia partisan all that matters is his club. No matter whom they’re playing, the place is packed. And the games are peaceful, without some of the violent fan incidents witnessed in other arenas. The stadium’s spectacular architecture alone would justify a visit to one of the most beautiful sports arenas in the world.

But of course there are other sports as well, like the Dortmund Chess Meeting, one of the 'grand slam' chess tournaments. Moreover, Dortmund is a center for varsity and field hockey, plus there are hockey stadiums and a sheer breathtaking variety of sports clubs. Right now, the great hype is free climbing ....

Tradition

Dortmund has a long tradition going back to pre-industrial times when trade played a major role in the city. Not far from our school there’s an old imperial castle, whence the name “Burgtor”. One of the oldest European trade routes, the “Hellweg”, cuts right through the city and is today one of the most popular shopping miles in Germany.

One of the typical Westphalian water castles can be found in Dortmund, and there are old churches with early Renaissance paintings making life in Dortmund a short trip from contemporary to medieval times. Unfortunately, many old buildiungs were destroyed during the bombing campaign in WW II.

Industry as Museum

Not long ago Dortmund practically lived off its heavy industry. Coal, steel and beer had made the city rich. Yet today most Dortmunders look somewhat incredulously upon what has become a gigantic industrial museum: The large industrial plants have been revamped and turned into sightseeing spots, so today one strolls through the gates past unused buildings and switched-off machines. Many modern factories have been dismantled and reassembled in China where labor is considerably cheaper.

Some people look upon this development with fear: What are we supposed to live on in the future? On the other hand, the industrial museums are attracting tourists from all over the world. A lot of people are fascinated by these industrial cathedrals, their architecture and the superb organization behind the foregone industrial enterprises.

Traffic

Situated near the geographical center of the Federal Republic, Dortmund is criss-crossed by a network of freeways, canals and railway lines. The relatively large inland port is today used by oarsemen and little pleasure liners rather than the industry. A modern subway and train system connects shortens the distance to neighboring cities. With a student ID you can travel for free to Bochum, Essen, Düsseldorf and many other cities. And of course there’s a modern airport.

Culture and Nightlife

Some prefer dancing, others enjoy classical music. Nice bars, cosy hangouts and the many international retaurants are another alternative. There are theaters, a ballet and opera house, beer gardens, street festivals and the International Culture Festival ...

Special tips for young people? Naturally: the FZW, website where a variety of attractive events and parties are annouced. Then there is the official site of the city of Dortmund or eventax or the university’s event page: TU Dortmund.

Of course there are many beer gardens and street cafés in the city’s parks and the entire downtown area. Maybe
you already know that German working hours are among the shortest in the world, so people need a place to hang out .... ;-)

Parks and Greens

The many parks and greens offer plenty of space for recreation. 50% of Dortmund are greens where life is pretty relaxed with international grill parties, jogging, biking and other sports. Along the canal you can enjoy nature without motorized traffic all the way up the beautiful Münsterland area.

A fascinating visit is offered by the old cementeries with the known and forgotten industrial tycoons.

Strolling Through Town

Why not take a walk around town? It’s not that hard to strike up friendships at the many cafés and bars. Take a look at Dortmund’s colorful city life, check out an Italian ice cream parlor, try a Turkish döner or simply enjoy fresh tab beer ...

See you in Dortmund!