Municipal and Industrial Museum

Adam Opel (1837-95) laid the foundation for Rüsselsheim’s industrialisation. He started in 1862 by producing sewing machines and then expanded operations to bicycle production, which ultimately led to vehicle manufacturing in 1898. His company flourished to such an extent that the American car manufacturer General Motors secured a majority share in the company in 1929. The first factory building, constructed in 1868 in the area of today’s portal building, had an area of approximately 200 square metres. Today’s production area comprises an expanse of approximately 2.5 million square metres. The factory’s special features include its exceedingly long southern façade and 52-metre-high Opel tower dating back to 1930. The industrial buildings, their structure uninterrupted from east to west, enjoy a special status as a factory complex.

Established in 1976, the Urban and Industrial Museum in Rüsselsheim presents cultural, social, economic, technological and political developments from the prehistoric and ancient period right up to the 20th century and has been praised across Europe. One of the museum’s priority areas is the development of the Opel factory in the city. The German subsidiary of General Motors has donated Opel cars and motorbikes, some on permanent loas, along with a complete conveyor belt and production machines.

Municipal and Industrial Museum
Hauptmann Scheuermann Weg 4
65428 Rüsselsheim
Germany
+49 (0) 6142 - 832950
Homepage

Recommended duration of visit:2 Hours
Duration of a guided tour:90 Minutes
Admission:Charge
Access for persons with disabilities:Available
Infrastructure for children:
Catering:
Visitor centre on site:yes
Gift and book shop on site:yes

Tuesday - Friday 9am-5pm
Saturday, Sunday 10am-5pm

  • Guided tours optional
  • Guided tours for children