The Dortmunder U is a former brewery building. The former Union Brewery, at one time the largest brewery in West Germany, used this building for the fermentation and storage. It was the first high-rise built in Dortmund, between 1926 and 1927.

In 1994 the brewery and all its surrounding buildings were closed and demolished; only the Dortmund U-Tower was spared due to having landmark status. In 2008 the Dortmund U-Tower was decided to be redeveloped. Since 2010 it has served as a centre for the arts and creativity, housing among other facilities the Museum Ostwall.