The Ruhr Valley is a significant industrial region in western Germany, known for its rich coal deposits and steel production. It stretches approximately 120 kilometers along the Ruhr River, connecting cities like Duisburg, Essen, and Dortmund. The area played a crucial role in the country's industrialization during the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the Ruhr Valley has transformed from an industrial hub to a center for culture and education. Many former factories have been repurposed into museums, parks, and cultural venues, reflecting the region's shift towards a more sustainable and diversified economy.