Can you imagine a time when a simple shower wasn’t a given at home? Here at the Südbad, remnants of that era whisper stories of Dortmund’s past. The Südbad isn’t just a swimming pool. It’s a living testament to changing times. Opened in 1960 on the Ruhrallee, the Südbad became Dortmund’s first indoor pool after the war. This wasn’t the original Südbad though. The first “Southern Bathing Establishment” opened in the 1870s about 500 meters south of here. The current Südbad quickly became a hub for both competitive swimming and leisurely dips. Its 50-meter competition-length pool has seen Olympic trials, German Championships, and countless records broken. The Südbad even hosted the 10th European Deaf Swimming Championships in 2010. Look around. This modern facility with its eight-lane stainless steel pool and seating for 500 spectators is a far cry from its predecessor. But a unique feature connects the Südbad to its past. In the basement, you can still find some of the original shower and bath cabins. These were rented by the hour back when many Dortmund residents lacked such amenities in their homes. The Südbad is also an unexpected art venue. Admire the colorful wall tile mosaic by Dortmund artist Harry Fränkel. Its abstract design in warm yellows and beige adds a touch of artistic flair to this sporty setting. The Südbad continues to serve the community. It caters to elite athletes, school groups, and casual swimmers alike. It stands as a symbol of Dortmund’s resilience. A place where history laps gently against the present, reminding us of how far we’ve come.
Willy-Brandt-Gesamtschule
Established in 1988 the Willy-Brandt-Gesamtschule in Bochum is a significant landmark in German education. It was one of the first