Gelsenkirchen Auctions Taylor Swift Concert Signs

The German city of Gelsenkirchen, which temporarily rebranded itself as 'Swiftkirchen' during Taylor Swift's concerts in mid-July, received about 1,400 bids for 20 specially created signs. The highest bid reached 3,000 euros ($3,245), with proceeds from the auction directed towards local charities, including a center for girls, a children's food bank, and a women's shelter. Notably, one of the winning bids was from outside Germany, though details were not disclosed. Additionally, one 'Swiftkirchen' sign has been donated to the Haus der Geschichte in Bonn, a museum focused on post-World War II history. Gelsenkirchen, historically a coal mining city, is recognized as one of Germany's economically disadvantaged areas, yet it occasionally hosts international stars, enhancing its cultural appeal.