Wuppertal

Wuppertal is a city in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It lies in the valley of the Wupper river within the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region and has about 350,000 residents.

Historically, the city grew during the 19th century around textile manufacturing in the towns of Elberfeld and Barmen. These two urban centers were merged in 1929 to form Wuppertal.

One of the most recognizable features is the Wuppertal Suspension Railway (Schwebebahn), a 20th‑century suspension railway that runs along the Wupper river and is still in operation.

Education and culture are central to the city's profile. The Bergische Universität Wuppertal (University of Wuppertal) offers research and degree programs across disciplines. The Von der Heydt Museum houses a notable collection of European art from the 17th to 20th centuries. The city also has a strong performing-arts tradition, including the Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch and multiple theatres.

Economy has diversified from its textile roots to engineering, services, and small-to-medium enterprises. The Vorwerk company traces its origins to Wuppertal, and other manufacturers and research institutions are present in the city.

Friedrich Engels was born in Barmen, an area now part of Wuppertal, highlighting the historical significance of the city in German intellectual history.

Transport links connect Wuppertal to the region via Wuppertal Hauptbahnhof and a network of light-rail trams. The Schwebebahn remains a prominent tourist and local transportation feature.