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.
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.
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.
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.
District | Neighborhoods | Known for? |
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Mitte |
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Bockum-Hövel |
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Heessen |
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Pelkum |
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Rhynern |
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Uentrop |
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Herringen |
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The city is located in the northeast of the Ruhr area and connects the Münsterland with the Ruhr area.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Waterway | Length/Size | Special Features |
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Lippe | 220 km | Flows through Hamm, ideal for water sports |
Datteln-Hamm Canal | 47 km | Important inland port, many cycling paths along the shore |
Geithebach | 11 km | Small creek with green bank paths |
Selbachpark Lake | Approx. 1 ha | Artificial lake, popular with walkers |
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.
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):
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.
Event | Period | Information | Entry Fee |
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Hamm Culinary | May | Food trucks and gourmet stands at the marketplace | Free |
Hammer Summer | July | Music festival featuring national and international artists | Free |
Maximilian Park Light Festival | August | Light show with live music | Approx. €10 |
Stuniken Market | September | Folk festival with rides and stalls | Free |
Christmas Market | December | Traditional Christmas stalls with mulled wine and handicrafts | Free |
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.
Hamm has a well-developed bus and train network that connects the districts and surrounding areas.
📝 Tip: For day trips to the Ruhr area, the NRW Ticket is worth it, which is also valid in Hamm.
The city has a moderate climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Season | Avg. Temperature | Sun Hours | Precipitation |
---|---|---|---|
Spring (March–May) | 10–18°C | about 5–7 hrs/day | moderate |
Summer (June–August) | 22–28°C | about 7–9 hrs/day | little |
Autumn (Sept.–Nov.) | 10–18°C | about 4–6 hrs/day | variable |
Winter (Dec.–Feb.) | -2–5°C | about 2–4 hrs/day | often rain or snow |
📝 Tip: The best travel time is May to September, when many outdoor events take place.
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.
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