- Population0.26 million
- Foundedin 1840
Gelsenkirchen, a city of nearly 260,000 people, is synonymous with the 'beautiful game' and its beloved football club, FC Schalke 04, whose fervent supporters paint the town blue on match days. Affectionately known as 'The City of a Thousand Fires,' a nod to its industrial past and the coal mines that once fueled its economy, Gelsenkirchen has transformed itself into a vibrant cultural hub. Founded in 1840, this resilient city now boasts modern architecture, green spaces, and a lively atmosphere.