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Bielefeld
Old Townhall
Old Townhall
Flag of Bielefeld
Flag
Coat of arms of Bielefeld
Coat of arms
Country Germany
State North Rhine-Westphalia
Admin. region Detmold
District Urban district
Founded 1214
Subdivisions 10 districts
Elevation
118 m (387 ft)
Population
 (2022-12-31)
 • Total 338,332
Time zone CET/CEST (UTC+1/+2)
Postal codes
33501-33739
Dialling codes 0521, 05202-05209
Vehicle registration BI
Website www.bielefeld.de

Bielefeld is a city in northwest Germany. It is located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. About 327,000 people live in Bielefeld, and it is also home to a university.

About Bielefeld

Bielefeld is a lively city in Germany. It is known for its green spaces and interesting history. The city is surrounded by the Teutoburg Forest, which is a great place for outdoor activities.

Location and Size

Bielefeld is in the northeastern part of North Rhine-Westphalia. This is one of Germany's largest states. The city covers an area of about 257.8 square kilometers. It sits at an average height of 118 meters above sea level.

Population and People

With over 325,000 residents, Bielefeld is a good-sized city. It has a diverse population. Many young people come here to study at the University of Bielefeld.

Districts of Bielefeld

Bielefeld is divided into 10 main districts. Each district has its own unique feel. This helps the city feel like a collection of smaller communities.

History of Bielefeld

Bielefeld has a long and interesting past. It was officially founded in the year 1214. The city grew around the Sparrenburg Castle.

Early Beginnings

Bielefeld started as a small settlement. It was an important trading center in the Middle Ages. This was because of its location on important trade routes.

Linen Industry

For a long time, Bielefeld was famous for its linen production. People here made high-quality linen fabric. This industry brought wealth and growth to the city.

Modern Development

Over the centuries, Bielefeld continued to grow. It became an important industrial city. Today, it is a center for many different businesses and technologies.

What to See and Do

Bielefeld offers many cool places to visit. There are historic sites, parks, and museums. It's a great place to explore.

Sparrenburg Castle

Sparrenburg innovative sights
Sparrenburg Castle

The Sparrenburg Castle is one of Bielefeld's most famous landmarks. It sits on a hill overlooking the city. You can climb the tower for amazing views. The castle was built in the 13th century.

Old Town Hall

Bielefeld Innenstadt
Old Town Hall in Bielefeld (1904)

The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) is a beautiful building. It shows the city's rich history. It is located in the city center.

Old Market Place

Alter-Markt-Bielefeld
Old Market Place (Alter Markt)

The Old Market Place (Alter Markt) is a lively square. It's a great spot to see historic buildings. You can also find cafes and shops here.

Kesselbrink

Bielefeld Kesselbrink
The Kesselbrink outside the Old Town

The Kesselbrink is a modern public space. It's located just outside the old town. It's a popular spot for skateboarding and relaxing.

Radrennbahn Bielefeld

2019-05-25 Radrennbahn Bielefeld
Radrennbahn Bielefeld (2019)

The Radrennbahn Bielefeld is a cycling track. It's used for bike races and other events. It's a cool place to watch sports.

Famous People from Bielefeld

Many notable people have connections to Bielefeld.

Christian Friedrich Nasse

Christian Friedrich Nasse
Christian Friedrich Nasse

Christian Friedrich Nasse (1778–1851) was an important doctor. He made contributions to medicine.

Hermann Stenner

Stenner Hermann Museumsberg Flensburg Hans-Christansen-Haus
Self-portrait Hermann Stenner 1911

Hermann Stenner (1891–1914) was a talented painter. He was known for his Expressionist art.

Friedrich von Bodelschwingh

Friedrich von Bodelschwingh
Friedrich von Bodelschwingh

Friedrich von Bodelschwingh (1831–1910) was a pastor. He founded important social welfare institutions. These places helped many people in need.

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