HELLWEG – ein LICHTWEG is a modular, constantly expanding art project in the Hellweg region. Initiated in 2002, the project brings together works of light art that are already made or undergoing completion in the public space to form an identity-creating whole.
Under the overall artistic direction of Matthias Wagner K, new works of light art by nationally and internationally renowned artists are projected and realised every year in partnership with cities and municipalities of the Hellweg region, the Centre for International Light Art Unna and invited guest curators. These artworks can only be experienced in their surroundings; they do, after all, form a coexistence with them: with the life habits of the people nearby, with the historical and present-day contexts, with the urban city and landscape zones – with what has shaped these places, makes them distinctive and special.
There is plenty to see, visit and experience along this trail of light art works. Selected tips and recommendations, tailored to personal requests and interests, provide guidance through the Hellweg region and help visitors plan their cultural days out.
We wish you hours of fun and fascination.
The former pump station (built in 1890) is a monument-protected gem of industrial culture which has been put to exemplary new use with the support of a community foundation. Alongside a diverse array of cultural events, the catering at the Rohrmeisterei is very popular, with a gourmet bistro and a beer garden in the new landscaped park.
INFO: Ruhrstr. 20, Tel. +49 (0)2304/2013001, www.rohrmeisterei-schwerte.de
One of Germany’s last remaining, operational old mustard mills. Mustard continues to be made here today, free of additives, the traditional way.
INFO: Ruhrstr. 16, Tel. +49 (0)2304/776111, www.schwerter-senfmuehle.de
The town’s trademark with its art treasures originating from various centuries. Its gilded carved altar from Antwerp, dating from 1523, is one of the outstanding sights.
INFO: Marktplatz, Tel. +49 (0)2304/104777, www.schwerte.de
The Ruhr Valley Museum has been located in the old town hall since 1997, and is a venue for temporary exhibitions, lectures and musical performances.
INFO: Brückstr. 14, Tel. +49 (0)2304/219950, www.ruhrtalmuseum.de
The “Rohrmeisterei Plateau” landscaped park is situated between the industrial monument and meadows beside the Ruhr. Adjacent to the beer garden you will find an events area, a biotope with pond, and a meadow with river platforms. The light art object “less sauvage than others” by Rosemarie Trockel is also on show here.
INFO: Tel. +49 (0)2304/2013001, www.rohrmeisterei-schwerte.de
The Ruhr Meadows offer a beautiful landscape amid an attractive setting for strolling, cycling (Ruhrtalradweg) or simply relaxing.
Take a canoe tour by yourself or in a group, for a few hours or even a whole day. April – October, Sat./Sun. and public holidays, 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.
INFO: Ruhrstr. 18, Tel. +49 (0)2304/61699, www.lenne-ruhr-kanu-tour.de
Following original recipes by Germany’s most famous 19th-century cookery writer, who came from the Ruhr Valley, a menu is showcased in a historical setting several times a year – sometimes with literary party pieces, sometimes with musical accompaniment: a gourmet evening for all senses. The restaurant enjoys cross-regional renown (Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide, among other distinctions).
INFO/RESERVIERUNG: Tel. +49 (0) 2304/2013001, www.rohrmeisterei-schwerte.de
This historical establishment, dated 1900, has been family-owned for more than 70 years. The hotel has good transport links for quick and uncomplicated guest arrival, making it the ideal starting point for numerous activities.
INFO: Bahnhofstr. 32, Tel. +49 (0)2304/16004, www.hotel-reichshof.de
Guests can expect all the conveniences of a 3-star hotel in 12 individually decorated rooms with hand-painted rustic furniture. The hotel offers restorative calm with a view of the Ruhr, the Ruhr meadows, the park or the courtyard.
INFO: Zum Wellenbad 7, Tel. +49 (0)2304/4879, www.landgasthof-wellenbad.de
Starred chefs such as Léa Linster, Kolja Kleeberg or Nelson Müller are regular guests during these culinary weeks, conjuring up a gourmet menu with Rohrmeisterei chef Manfred Kobinger.
INFO: Tel. +49(0)2304-2013001, www.rohrmeisterei-schwerte.de
Various stages and streets, along with the Rohrmeisterei culture centre, play host to theatre groups from Germany and abroad who present their theatrical arts in the open air.
INFO: Tel. +49 (0)2304/104-810, www.welttheater-der-strasse.de
All genres of performing art such as comedy, mime, cabaret, musical theatre plus puppet shows are presented to a high standard at various locations every year during this festival.
INFO: Tel. +49(0)2304/104-802, www.kuwebe.de
Jazz fans are advised to plan their visit to Schwerte on a Wednesday. Established and young artists from the region play at the Rohrmeisterei. Enjoy a relaxed lounge atmosphere in the Rohrmeisterei’s restaurant.
INFO: Tel. +49 (0)2304/2013001, www.rohrmeisterei-schwerte.de