The former Bochumer Verein complex in Bochum was once one of Germany’s most important steel and cast-steel works. From the nineteenth century onwards, railway wheels, axles, steel structures and other heavy industrial products were manufactured here, helping to drive the rapid industrial growth of the Ruhr region.

The abandoned halls that still remain today were equipped with massive overhead cranes, transport bridges and railway tracks embedded in the floor, allowing heavy steel components to be moved throughout the site. Following the decline of the German steel industry, large parts of the complex were shut down and gradually fell into disrepair.

During my visit, it was still easy to imagine the scale of operations that once took place here. The vast production halls, rusting cranes and deserted workshops serve as a reminder of a time when Bochum was one of Europe’s leading industrial centres.

Although much of the historic complex has since been demolished or redeveloped, part of the site remains active today. Railway wheels and wheelsets are still being manufactured here, keeping a small part of the Bochumer Verein industrial heritage alive.