Situated on crossroads where four canals merge, Datteln is the world’s largest canal junction. The channel cross, harbour and lock systems cover 17 km in length across the district of Recklinghausen in Germany’s rural North Rhine-Westphalia region. This charming town still beams with its peasantry origins that date back to the 11th century, and its network of canals make for a beautiful and serene setting. The Munster region of course is most known for its wealth of medieval castles, and this town provides the perfect starting point to explore the spectacular countryside and discover the fairy-tale land of 100 castles.
Location: Near the Ruhr industrial area
Located at the north end of the Ruhr region near the rural area of Münster, Datteln has a population of around 35,000 residents. Situated just 10 km north-east of Recklinghausen and 20 km north-west of Dortmund, it is easily accessed from major German cities. The nearest major airport is Dortmund Airport (DTM/EDLW), 39 km from the city centre.
Business: High quality medical services
Major companies headquartered here include Zimmerei Holzbau-Pieper carpentry and timber, Titanzink-Hersteller Rheinzink titanium and zinc manufacturers, and Bauchemie-Produzent Deitermann, a dry mortar and construction chemicals producer. Most importantly, the awarded Vestische Caritas-Kliniken GmbH and Pediatric Clinic is also a major employer with close to 3,000 employees.
Culture: Enjoy the infectious Kanalfestival
The parish church of St. Amandus is a humble church building whose origins date to the 12th century. The Hermann-Grochtmann Museum offers an extensive collection of local history. Social highlights include two annual festivities, the May Day and the Kanalfestival with the atmospheric lantern parade followed by fireworks after the onset of darkness. Every year on Ascension Day, the Children's Festival of the volunteer fire department takes place before an over-30s party in the courtyard of the fire and rescue station. A sports highlight is the great Horse Show, which takes place on the third weekend in August on the grounds of the Rural Riding and Driving Club.
Activities: Explore the land of 100 castles
Datteln provides an ideal base away from the hustle and bustle of busy cities. Escape to the peace and quiet of the countryside, and explore rural Münsterland, a land famous for its 100 castles. The best way to get around is by bicycle, and the "100 Schlösser Route" provides you with a designated network of paths that link up the castles.
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