Wuppertal ^{25.05.18 Part I}

Took a pretty much needed trip to Wuppertal today – it was about time to walk through a different city. Wandering through my hometown Cologne every time I grab the camera to take some photos is getting somewhat… exhausting. So yeah, it’s Wuppertal this time!

About Wuppertal

Wuppertal is a vibrant city in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, nestled in the Bergisches Land region on the banks of the Wupper River. With a population of around 350,000, it forms part of the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan area, one of Europe’s largest urban regions. The city is best known for its suspended monorail, the Wuppertal Schwebebahn, a unique and iconic form of public transport that has been in operation since 1901. Gliding above the streets and river for over 13 kilometers, it remains both a practical commuting solution and a beloved symbol of the city.

Wuppertal is also celebrated for its abundant green spaces. Nearly two-thirds of the city is covered in parks, forests, and gardens, making it one of Germany’s greenest urban areas. Highlights include the Botanical Garden and the Wuppertal Zoo, one of the oldest and most respected zoos in the country.

Historically, Wuppertal was a powerhouse of early German industrialization, especially in the textile industry. The modern city was formed in 1929 through the merger of several smaller towns, most notably Barmen and Elberfeld. This industrial heritage is still visible in the city’s architecture and infrastructure.

Culturally, Wuppertal punches above its weight. It is home to the University of Wuppertal, as well as a thriving arts scene. The city gained international recognition through the groundbreaking Tanztheater Wuppertal, founded by renowned choreographer Pina Bausch. Institutions such as the Von der Heydt Museum and numerous theaters reflect the city’s commitment to the arts.

Wuppertal also holds a special place in Germany’s religious and political history. In 1934, the Barmen Declaration—a bold statement of resistance to Nazi ideology—was drafted here by members of the Confessing Church, highlighting the city’s role in spiritual and moral resistance during a dark chapter of German history.

Built along a narrow river valley, Wuppertal has a distinct urban character shaped by its steep hillsides, stairways, viaducts, and a mix of industrial-era and modern architecture.

Interestingly, Wuppertal has also left a mark on the German language. The phrase “Über die Wupper gehen” (literally “to go over the Wupper”) is a colloquial expression meaning to fall on hard times, face ruin, or even die. The origin likely stems from the location of prisons or execution sites on the far side of the Wupper River, symbolizing a point of no return. It’s a reminder of how deeply the city’s identity is woven into the cultural fabric of Germany.

In sum, Wuppertal is a city that combines engineering marvels, natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical depth—making it one of Germany’s more underrated but fascinating urban centers.

100 MP Hi-Res downscaled to 25MP
Panasonic G9II
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 35-100mm f2.8

Wuppertal 25.05.18 Part I

About Wuppertal

Wuppertal ^{25.05.18 Part I}