Essen

Essen ... 100 largest German corporations. Historically, it has been linked to the centuries-old Krupp family iron works. / Particular importance gained the factories of the Krupp family. Resident in Essen since the 16th century, Essen and the Krupp dynasty were of particular influence for each other. In 1811, Friedrich Krupp founded Germany's first cast steel factory in Essen and laid the cornerstone for what was to be the largest enterprise in Europe for a couple of decades. The weapon factories in Essen became so important that a sign vis-à-vis the main station welcomed visitors to the Armory of the Reich during World War II. The Krupp works also were the main reason for the large population growth since the mid-19th century - Essen became a Großstadt in 1896. Other industrialists, such as Friedrich Grillo, who in 1892 donated the Grillo Theater to the city, also played a major role in the shaping of the city and the Ruhr region in the late 19th/early 20th century. Although no weaponry is produced in Essen anymore, the old industrial enterprises such as Krupp and RWE remain large employers in the city. Foundations such as the Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach-Stiftung still promote the well-being of the city, e.g. with a hospital and spendings of €55 Million for a new building for the Museum Folkwang, one of the Ruhr Area's major art exhibitions.