Refurbishment of the heap: Totem figures have to give way - new coat of paint for Chemnitz!

Refurbishment of the heap: Totem figures have to give way - new coat of paint for Chemnitz!

The Halde Haniel in Bottrop, an important relic of the former mining in the Ruhr area, faces fundamental changes. The RAG, the successor to the mining, has announced that the renovation work will start in autumn. However, these measures are a challenge for visitors to the heap, since restrictions can be expected during the work. Over 100 totem figures by the Basque artist Augustin Ibarrola are particularly affected, who have to be implemented in the entrance of the mine during the earthworks. Previously, these totems had been fenced after heavy rain due to static problems.

After completing the renovation work, the totems should be brought back to their original place. There will also be no fence about the figures, which should improve accessibility for visitors. Another drastic measure is the demolition of the dilapidated amphitheater, which in 2010 and 2016 was the scene of remarkable opera performances such as "AIDA" and "The Flying Dutchman". However, the financial situation does not provide for a means of renovating the theater, which makes this step inevitable.

consequences of the renovation work

The upcoming work on the Halde Haniel shows how important it is to preserve historical sites and at the same time meet new challenges. RAG has decided to follow a combination of preservation and redesign. This could be important for both the cultural and tourist development of the region.

In addition, mining is discussed in another part of Germany as a cultural heritage. As part of the Chemnitz cultural year, the exhibition "Silver Glanz and Masinetz death" was opened, which illuminates the mining in the Ore Mountains. This exhibition looks at the mining, which has been operated for three and a half millennia, from various perspectives. It addresses aspects such as technical innovation and the effects on people and the environment.

• Focus of the exhibition:
• technology and innovation
• power and exploitation
• landscapes and wealth
• man and nature

Another beautiful accent is the art and sculpture path "Purple Path", which can be found in over 38 cities and municipalities around Chemnitz. It includes works by international and regional artists and is under the motto "Everything comes from the mountain". These sculptures reflect the 850-year history of mining in Saxony and invite you to deal with this traditional industry.

The exhibition "Melting Pott" of the well-known jazz trumpeter Till Brönner, which shows photographs from coal mining as well as steel workers and old industrial buildings, is also related to the mining. Brönner, who dedicated a year of his career in photography in the Ruhr area, thus provides unique insights into an era that was formative for many people.