The German Industrial Region is composed of two major areas, the Ruhr and the Saar. The Ruhr is a densely populated area in western Germany that is known for its coal and steel production. It is also home to many large cities, such as Dortmund, Essen, and Bochum. The Saar is a region in southwestern Germany that is known for its iron ore and coal mining. It is also home to several large cities, such as Saarbrücken, Völklingen, and Neunkirchen. Both the Ruhr and the Saar have been important centers of industry and commerce in Germany for centuries.