📜 Large open-pit coal mine in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.🔍 Operated by RWE, it's the deepest open pit mine relative to sea level, reaching 299 meters below sea level, and home to Bagger 293, one of the world's largest terrestrial vehicles. # Why Go ⛏️ Witness the largest man-made hole in Europe and an active mine. 🚜 See giant bucket-wheel excavators, including the Bagger 293, among the world's largest terrestrial vehicles. 🏞️ Observe a massive industrial landscape and the transformation of a mining landscape into a future lake. 🏞️ Visit Sophienhöhe Hill, a recreational area built from mine spoils. # Why Avoid 🚧 Active mining site, not a typical scenic attraction, and may not be suitable for all visitors. 💨 Potential for dust or noise from operations. ⏳ Operations ending by 2030/2040, site will be transformed into a lake. # Tips 🅿️ Parking available at observation points. 🔭 Binoculars recommended for optimal viewing of the large machines.