Starting today, the Azerbaijani team has begun adapting to the Universiade set to take place in Germany’s Rhine-Ruhr region.
One of Europe’s most historic, culturally rich, and dynamic regions has been chosen to host this sporting event, Idman.biz reports.
The Rhine-Ruhr region covers a large part of Western Germany. Along with the host cities, Bochum, Duisburg, Essen, Mulheim, and Hagen, the region also includes Dusseldorf, the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia. One of the most famous cities in the area is Cologne, home to more than one million residents and known for its iconic cathedral. Another major city is Dortmund, recognized for its top-tier football club Borussia Dortmund.
All the Universiade host cities are located in what was once the Ruhr industrial area. This is Germany’s largest urban agglomeration, with a population exceeding 5 million. These cities are closely connected from west to east, and visitors often notice they’ve entered a new city only through road signs. The region takes its name from the Ruhr River, which once allowed for the cheap and efficient transportation of coal and industrial goods.
For centuries, the Ruhr region developed under the influence of the mining industry.
Though today it serves as a key center for industry and commerce, coal mining was the main driver of its initial development. In the 19th century, rich deposits of coal and ore, along with steel production and processing industries, turned the area into one of Europe’s largest industrial zones. The mining sector shaped both the economic and cultural identity of the region, leaving a lasting impact on local communities. While mining has since ceased, many cities still bear the marks of the factories and mines that once surrounded them. During its industrial boom, the Ruhr attracted waves of migration from other parts of Germany and from abroad, particularly Poland, Turkiye, Italy, and Greece. As a result, the region remains home to a rich blend of cultures.
The city of Essen symbolizes the transformation and renewal of the region. It was once home to the world’s largest coal mine, the Zollverein complex, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Former industrial facilities have been converted into cultural centers, museums, and event venues.
Today, the region is a hub for science, research, and higher education. According to various sources, it is home to more than nine universities and technical colleges, as well as several technology centers.
Essen will also serve as the main venue for the Universiade competitions, and the Azerbaijani team is based there. The athletes held their first training sessions today and will soon begin participating in events.
Idman.biz
