Oberhausen

Oberhausen was founded on February 20, 1854, alongside the coal mine 'Oberhausen I'. It was named after the Oberhausen Castle, which was one of the landmarks of the area. The rapid industrialization in the Ruhr area in the 19th century led to the establishment of many cities like Oberhausen. Over time, Oberhausen became a significant center for coal mining and steel production. The founding of the city was a response to the need for organized urban structures to support industrial activities and the growing population employed in these industries.

Oberhausen Hauptbahnhof, the main railway station of Oberhausen, officially opened on May 11, 1904. At the time, Oberhausen was rapidly industrializing, and the establishment of a central railway station was crucial for managing the transport of goods and people. It became a significant hub in the railway network of the Ruhr area, linking different industrial centers and facilitating the movement of workers. Over the years, the station has been modernized and continues to serve as a key transport interchange for the region, supporting both industrial and passenger transport.

On January 9, 1922, the Oberhausen Manifesto was published, declaring the intentions of a group of filmmakers who sought to break away from traditional German cinema. The manifesto emphasized a new direction for German films, focusing on realism and contemporary themes, distancing itself from the fantasy and escapism popularly seen in cinema at the time. It became a foundational document for modern cinematic expressions in Germany and influenced subsequent generations of filmmakers. The manifesto marked a critical moment in German film history, aligning with broader cultural movements in the Weimar Republic.

On August 17, 1929, the independent cities of Oberhausen, Sterkrade, and Osterfeld were merged to form the larger city of Oberhausen. This merger was part of a larger municipal reform in the region and aimed to streamline administration and provide better services to the inhabitants of the area. Prior to the merger, each town had its own city council and administration, but the growing interconnections between them led to the decision to unify. This reform was typical in the Ruhr area, which was undergoing significant industrial growth and urbanization at the time.

The Gasometer Oberhausen, a large former gas storage tank, was opened on August 8, 1930. It was used to store coal gas produced by the local steelworks. At the time of its completion, it was the largest gasometer in Europe and remains a significant engineering landmark. During its industrial use, it played a vital role in managing the gas supply for steel production. After its decommissioning in the late 20th century, the Gasometer was repurposed as an exhibition space and has since hosted numerous exhibitions and cultural events, becoming an iconic part of Oberhausen's skyline.

On May 4, 1954, the St. Antony Ironworks site in Oberhausen was opened to the public as a museum. The ironworks were significant as they were the first in the Ruhr area, established in 1758. The site marked the beginning of iron and steel production in the region, forming the roots of the heavy industry that would dominate the Ruhr for centuries. The museum showcases the history of early industrial activities in Oberhausen and its surrounding areas. It features exhibitions on the technological advancements of the time and the daily lives of workers.

The first International Short Film Festival Oberhausen was inaugurated on October 4, 1962. It quickly became one of the leading festivals for short films worldwide and a major cultural event in Oberhausen. The festival is known for its commitment to innovative and avant-garde cinematic expressions, showcasing works from emerging filmmakers and established directors alike. It provides a platform for creative experimentation and has played a significant role in promoting short films as an art form. Over the decades, the festival has influenced international filmmaking and continues to be a highlight in the film festival calendar.

On June 6, 1963, the Ludwig Galerie Schloss Oberhausen was established. Housed in a wing of the Oberhausen Castle, the gallery became a key cultural venue in the city. It was founded to enhance the cultural landscape of Oberhausen and provide a space for the exhibition of modern and contemporary art. Over the years, the gallery has hosted numerous exhibitions featuring renowned artists from around the world, contributing significantly to the cultural vibrancy of the city. It is named after the Ludwig Collection, which includes works of modern art and photography.

On January 14, 1991, the Oberhausen Declaration was signed, an agreement concerning environmental policy and industrial change in the Ruhr area. Representatives from industry, government, and labor organizations committed to a forward-thinking strategy to address the environmental and economic challenges arising from the decline of heavy industry. The declaration emphasized sustainable development and the transition to cleaner industries, highlighting the importance of collaborative approaches to regional planning. It marked a significant step in the redevelopment of the Ruhr area, setting a precedent for other industrial regions facing similar challenges.

CentrO, one of the largest shopping and leisure centers in Europe, officially opened its doors to the public on March 8, 1996. Located in Oberhausen, CentrO was part of a significant urban development project aimed at transforming the city's economic structure following the decline of its traditional coal and steel industries. The center includes a wide array of shops, restaurants, entertainment facilities, and nearby attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. It significantly contributed to the revitalization of Oberhausen's economy and has become a central feature of the city's identity.