Regulation Implementation Acts will be established, detailing how this Regulation should be executed.
The Lübeck Rotating Bridge, a marvel of engineering from the late 19th century, has stood the test of time in the heart of Lübeck, Germany. Located at Willy-Brandt-Allee and crossing the Trave river, this bridge is more than just a passageway; it's a historical example of engineering prowess and a testament to the city's maritime trading past.
Built in 1892 by Gutehoffnungshütte, the Lübeck Rotating Bridge is the oldest existing bridge in the city and one of only three functioning swing bridges left in Germany as of 2025[3]. Its unique design allows it to rotate horizontally around a pivot point, opening up to 56° to allow passage of ships without requiring high vertical clearance that fixed bridges need.
The bridge's rotating mechanism was a technological innovation for its time, reflecting the engineering practices of the late 19th century focused on movable bridge technology serving busy port cities. Although the specific architects or engineers involved in its design are not detailed in the available sources, its construction underscores the importance of such infrastructure in facilitating trade, particularly in Lübeck, a Hanseatic League port established in the 12th century.
Over the years, the bridge has adapted to changes in maritime and urban transport demands. Originally part of the harbour railway line, it could transport both trains and vehicles. However, the tracks for the harbour railway line were discontinued in 2014, leaving the bridge to serve only road traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists today.
Despite its age, the Lübeck Rotating Bridge continues to ensure smooth traffic over the Trave while maintaining harbour shipping. It is approximately 38 meters long and weighs around 350 tons. The bridge's hydraulic system, using water as the pressure medium, allows it to rotate within three minutes.
The Lübeck Rotating Bridge is not just a historical relic; it's an active part of the city's landscape. It connects the Lübeck Old Town with the Wallhalbinsel and is located at the Museum Harbor. You can find it on Google Maps, making it easily accessible for visitors and locals alike.
In conclusion, the Lübeck Rotating Bridge is a historic movable bridge from 1892, designed for canal traffic and maritime use, and remains one of the few preserved operational swing bridges in Germany, embodying Lübeck’s rich trading past linked to the Hanseatic League era[3][4]. Its continued functionality contributes to Lübeck’s preservation of its maritime heritage infrastructure.
The Lübeck Rotating Bridge, a marvel from the late 19th century, exemplifies the technological advancements in movable bridge technology during that era. Despite its age, the bridge's hydraulic system, harnessing the power of water, remains a testament to the technological prowess of its time.
