Wupper

The Wupper is a river in western Germany, located in North Rhine-Westphalia. It rises in the Sauerland region and flows generally northward through the Bergisches Land and the city of Wuppertal before joining the Rhine. The river is roughly one hundred kilometers in length.

Along its course the Wupper traverses a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The Wuppertal Suspension Railway, a distinctive landmark, runs above the river valley in Wuppertal. Historically, the valley was an industrial center, with iron and textile mills shaping the growth of nearby towns and, later, chemical and machinery industries contributing to the regional economy.

Hydrology and environment have been central to the river’s modern history. The Wupper suffered pollution during the industrial era, followed by cleanup efforts and stricter environmental controls that improved water quality. Today, the river supports habitat restoration, flood management infrastructure, and recreational uses, including parks and riverside paths that attract residents and visitors.

The name Wupper is of ancient origin and has given its name to the city and region through which the river runs, notably the city of Wuppertal—the “valley of the Wupper.” The river remains an important geographical feature in the area, shaping settlement, industry, and landscape planning for generations.