In the shadow of the large Ruhr area cities, Hamm is often overlooked, although the city has a lot to offer. It has developed into a green, modern, and livable place. Here, historic buildings meet modern architecture, and old industrial areas have been transformed into parks and recreational spaces. With the port on the Datteln-Hamm Canal, the famous Sri-Kamadchi-Ampal Temple, and the Maximilianpark Glass Elephants, there is much to discover.

• One of the largest inland ports in Germany – an important location for logistics
• The Sri Kamadchi Ampal Temple – the second largest Hindu temple in Europe
• Maximilian Park with the glass elephant – a landmark of the city
• Industrial culture meets nature – former mines transformed into green oases
• Good transport connections – central location between the Ruhr area and Münsterland

• Area: 226.3 km²
• Population: approx. 179,000 (as of 2024)
• Founded: 1226 as a city by Count Adolf I of the Mark
• Highest Point: 102 m (Haarstrang)
• Rivers: Lippe and Datteln-Hamm Canal
• Nickname: “Elephant City” because of the glass elephant
• Economy: Logistics, chemical industry, mechanical engineering
• Famous Personalities: Horst Hrubesch (footballer), Ingrid Steeger (actress), Manfred Schröder (physicist)
• Twin Cities: among others, Oranienburg (Germany), Afyonkarahisar (Turkey), Chattanooga (USA)

5 Curious Facts about Hamm

• This is where the largest elephant made of glass and steel stands: The Glass Elephant in Maximilianpark is the landmark of the city and a converted coal washing facility from a former mine.
• A temple in the middle of Westphalia: The Sri Kamadchi Ampal Temple looks like a building from India, but it is actually one of the most important Hindu temples in Europe.
• The first ICE train station in Germany: Hamm was the first city with an ICE train station in 1984 – long before many other cities were connected to the network.
• The largest animal in Hamm was an elephant – of flesh and blood: In 1951, a circus elephant escaped in Hamm and wandered through the city for several days before being captured.
• The city was once surrounded by water: Hamm was previously bordered by the Lippe, Ahse, and several canals – some of these waterways have disappeared today.

Hamm was founded in 1226 as a trading and military support point of the County of Mark. Due to its location on the Lippe River, the city quickly developed into an important economic center and was a significant trading hub for centuries.

Industrialization and Mining Boom

In the 19th century, Hamm became a classic industrial city through coal mining, steel production, and railway traffic. The construction of the Datteln-Hamm Canal made the city an important logistics location.

Structural Change and Realignment

After the end of coal mining in the 1990s, Hamm had to reinvent itself. Today, the city is a mix of industry, logistics, and the service sector with a growing focus on environmental and future technologies.

While Hamm-Mitte forms the vibrant center, districts like Heessen or Rhynern are more rural in character. Pelkum and Herringen still show many traces of mining, while Uentrop offers special attractions with the Maximilianpark and the Hindu temple.
 

The city is located in the northeast of the Ruhr area and connects the Münsterland with the Ruhr area.

• Neighboring cities: Dortmund (approx. 35 km), Münster (approx. 50 km), Soest (approx. 30 km)
• Rivers: The Lippe River flows through the city, and the Datteln-Hamm Canal is important for logistics
• Landscape: Flat region with many meadows, parks, and forests
• Climate: Temperate with average temperatures of 2 °C in winter and 24 °C in summer

The mix of industrial culture, modern architecture, and nature makes Hamm unique. Historical buildings stand next to futuristic constructions, and old coal mining sites have been transformed into green leisure parks.

An overview of the most famous landmarks

• Maximilian Park & Glass Elephant – Landmark of the city located on the site of an old coal mine
• Sri Kamadchi Ampal Temple – Second largest Hindu temple in Europe
• Castle Heessen – Impressive water castle from the 14th century
• Saxony Mine – Former coal mine with an industrial monument
• Marketplace & Paulus Church – Historical center of the city with an impressive church
• Hamm Zoo – Small, family-friendly zoo with around 600 animals
• Datteln-Hamm Canal – Perfect for walks, bike rides, and water sports
• Water Towers at the Higher Regional Court – One of the most well-known buildings in the city

The Glass Elephant – A landmark with history

The most famous building in Hamm is the Glass Elephant in Maximilian Park. It was converted from an old coal washing plant and now houses an art and adventure center. From the top, you have a fantastic view over the city.

The best route for a city tour through Hamm

• Start at the Marketplace: Explore Paulus Church and the historical center
• Continue to the Sri Kamadchi Ampal Temple: Experience a piece of India in the heart of Westphalia
• Walk along the Datteln-Hamm Canal: Perfect for a little break
• Visit Maximilian Park: Discover the Glass Elephant and the park grounds
• Finish at Castle Heessen: Enjoy medieval architecture in an idyllic setting

Duration: approx. 4–5 hours

The cuisine of the region is , with influences from the Ruhr area and Westphalia. Hamm also has a vibrant multicultural dining scene, particularly rich in Asian and Indian restaurants due to its proximity to the Hindu temple.

Typical Dishes from Hamm

• Pfefferpotthast – Westphalian goulash with beef, onions, and spices
• Westphalian Pickert – Potato pancake with raisins or bacon
• Struwen – Yeast pancakes traditionally eaten on Good Friday
• Panhas – Blood sausage specialty made with buckwheat flour
• Hamm Beer – The city has several local breweries producing flavorful pilsner and altbier

Pfefferpotthast – The Traditional Dish of Westphalia

This spicy beef dish is one of the best-known specialties of Westphalia. In Hamm, it is often served with potatoes and pickles – a must for anyone looking to explore the regional cuisine.

The Lippe and the Datteln-Hamm Canal are the most important waterways in the city. While the Lippe is more of a natural river, the canal plays a central role in logistics and recreational activities.

The Datteln-Hamm Canal – More than just a shipping route

It was originally built for industry, but has since developed into a popular recreation area. The cycling paths along the canal are perfect for bike tours, and at some points, you can even go canoeing.

The city has transformed from a stronghold of industry to a versatile economic location. Particularly, the logistics sector, chemical industry, and healthcare play a significant role.

Population: How is Hamm developing?

With around 179,000 residents, Hamm is one of the medium-sized cities in North Rhine-Westphalia. The population is relatively stable but is growing slowly due to immigration.

Population Statistics (2024):

• Total population: approx. 179,000
• Average age: 43 years
• Percentage of migrants: 27%
• Population growth: +0.2% per year

Which industries are important in Hamm?

• Logistics & Transport – The inland port is one of the largest in Germany
• Chemical Industry – Several large chemical companies are based here
• Mechanical Engineering & Metal Processing – An important location for industry
• Energy Supply – Hamm is the site of one of the largest coal power plants in Europe

Economic Development: How is the city positioned today?

After the end of mining, Hamm had to reinvent itself. Today, the city is a logistics and industrial center that benefits from its excellent transport connections. At the same time, tourism, boosted by attractions such as the Maximilianpark and the Hindu Temple, is gaining increasing importance.

Throughout the year, numerous events take place in Hamm – from traditional folk festivals to large cultural events and modern festivals. Particularly popular are the city festivals, music festivals, and markets, which attract visitors from the entire region.

Overview of Major Events

• Hamm Culinary – Food festival featuring specialties from around the world
• Maximilian Park Light Festival – Colorful light installations in the park
• Hammer Summer – Open-air music festival with renowned artists
• Stuniken Market – Traditional folk festival with rides and carnival atmosphere
• Hamm Christmas Market – Charming market stalls in the city center

Annual Events Overview

Hamm offers a mix of culture, nature, and experience. Whether you are traveling as a couple, family, or alone – there are many exciting destinations here.

Five Destinations in and around Hamm

• Maximilian Park – Unique park landscape with playgrounds and the glass elephant
• Hamm Zoo – Family-friendly atmosphere with exotic and native animals
• Heessen Castle – Historic water castle with a beautiful garden
• Lippe Meadows – Nature area with cycling and hiking paths along the river
• Zeche Sachsen – Industrial monument with tours about mining history

Three Recommendations for Couples

• Candle-light dinner at "Gut Sternholz" – High-quality cuisine in an idyllic setting
• Walk through Maximilian Park at sunset – Romantic atmosphere in one of the most beautiful parks in Westphalia
• Relaxation at the Heessen Salt Spa – Wellness with saltwater pools and sauna area

Three Recommendations for Singles

• Bar tour through the city center – Ranging from traditional pubs to modern cocktail bars
• Sports course at Maximare Adventure Pool – Perfect for meeting people and staying active
• City Library & Cultural Center – Regular events, readings, and art exhibitions

Three Recommendations for Families

• Wild Park Hamm – Free zoo with native wildlife and large playgrounds
• Boat trip on the Lippe – Relaxation on the water with views of nature
• Indoor playground "Biberburg" – Perfect for kids on rainy days

Three Hotel Recommendations in Hamm

• Luxury: Mercure Hotel Hamm – Central location with wellness area and upscale amenities
• Mid-range: B&B Hotel Hamm – Modern rooms at fair prices
• Budget: Hostel "Alte Post" – Affordable accommodation with good connections to the train station

What should you know?

• Many attractions are free – Especially natural areas like the Lippe meadows or the wildlife park.
• Parking in the city center is paid – However, there are affordable park-and-ride options.
• Cycling is becoming increasingly popular – The city is heavily investing in bike paths.

How does public transport work?

Hamm has a well-developed bus and train network that connects the districts and surrounding areas.

• Buses: Several lines in the city area, connections to neighboring towns.
• Trains: Direct connections to Dortmund, Münster, Düsseldorf, and the Ruhr area.
• Tickets:
  • Single journey: €2.90
  • Day ticket: €6.80
  • Weekly ticket: €27.50

📝 Tip: For day trips to the Ruhr area, the NRW Ticket is worth it, which is also valid in Hamm.

What's the weather like in Hamm?

The city has a moderate climate with warm summers and mild winters.

📝 Tip: The best travel time is May to September, when many outdoor events take place.

How to get to Hamm?

• Plane: The nearest airports are Dortmund (35 km) and Münster/Osnabrück (55 km).
• Train: Hamm is an important ICE hub with quick connections to Cologne, Berlin, and Hamburg.
• Car: Easily accessible via the A1, A2, and A44.

Hamm uniquely combines industrial culture, nature, and modern urban development. Whether you want to stroll through Maximilianpark, visit the Hindu temple, or simply enjoy the landscape along the Lippe River – the city offers a wide variety of experiences.