Essen has a long history as a center of mining and the steel industry and is now an important business location with a vibrant economy and a strong demand for well-trained professionals.

Some of the best-known and most popular sights in Essen are:

Zeche Zollverein: a former coal mine that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular location for cultural and leisure activities.

Folkwang Museum: A museum of art and design, it houses an extensive collection of works of art from antiquity to the present day.

Grugapark: a tall park in the heart of the City that is a popular location for relaxation and leisure activities.

Philharmonie Essen: a concert hall that regularly hosts concerts and musical events.

Villa Hügel: A magnificent mansion from the 19th century, which is now used as a museum and documents the history of the Krupp family.

Essen Münster: a Gothic church that was built in the 14th century and is one of the City's most important sights.

Essen has a population of around 600,000 inhabitants. The majority of the population are German, as well as a significant number of people from different countries and cultures. The City has a young population, as there are many universities and colleges with a strong presence, especially in areas such as engineering and business. Unemployment in Essen is relatively high compared to other regions in Germany, mainly due to the decline of heavy industry in recent decades.

Essen has an average purchasing power compared to other regions in Germany. There are many shopping centers and boutiques in the City, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafés. There are several cultural offerings, theaters, concerts, museums and exhibitions as well as many recreational opportunities such as parks and lakes. The City has a tall population of working-class families and people with a rather average purchasing power.