# Dudweiler

Dudweiler is a district (Stadtbezirk) of Saarbrücken, the capital of Saarland in southwestern Germany. Here's an overview of what I know about it:

## Geography & Administration
- Located in the northeastern part of Saarbrücken
- Situated in the Sulzbach valley
- It's one of the larger city districts of Saarbrücken
- Population of roughly 18,000–20,000 residents
- Until 1974, Dudweiler was an independent town before being incorporated into Saarbrücken during regional reforms

## History
- The area has been settled since ancient times, with evidence of Celtic and Roman presence
- First documented mention dates back to the medieval period
- Historically a coal mining town, which heavily shaped its development from the 18th century onward
- Mining operations were central to the local economy for centuries until the decline of the Saar coal industry
- Lost its status as an independent city when it was merged into Saarbrücken on January 1, 1974

## Notable Features
- **Brennender Berg (Burning Mountain)**: One of Dudweiler's most famous attractions—a coal seam fire that has been burning underground since 1668. It was even mentioned by Goethe, who visited in 1770 during his travels and described it in his autobiography "Dichtung und Wahrheit"
- The site is now a natural monument and tourist attraction
- Various historical buildings reflecting its industrial heritage

## Economy
- Historically dominated by coal mining
- After mine closures, the area transitioned toward services, retail, and small industry
- Has a pedestrian shopping zone (Saarbrücker Straße)

## Culture & Sports
- Home to several local sports clubs, including football clubs
- Various local festivals and traditions tied to its mining heritage

## Transportation
- Connected to Saarbrücken's public transport network
- Located near the A1 autobahn
- Has a railway station on regional lines

Is there a specific aspect of Dudweiler you'd like to know more about?
