Have you ever felt the chill of the North Sea wind while surrounded by the echoes of history? Welcome to Fischbahnhof 360° in Bremerhaven. Right here before you stands a building that whispers tales of a bygone era. It’s not just a building; it’s a living testament to Bremerhaven’s rich maritime heritage.
Fischbahnhof 360° is more than just a museum. It’s an immersive experience. It is a multi-functional event location at the end of the Fischereihafen I. Originally conceived in the 1990s as part of the “Schaufenster Fischereihafen” project. The project aimed to transform unused areas and buildings left behind by the decline of German deep-sea fishing. This ambitious project breathed new life into this area.
The Fischbahnhof’s story begins much earlier though. The original Fischbahnhof a fish dispatch station. It was built between 1913 and 1920. By the 1930s it boasted nine platforms. This was the heart of fish transportation by rail to the German mainland. But times changed. Truck transportation took over. The original Fischbahnhof lost its relevance. It was gradually dismantled starting in 1976. Only the administration building and the social building remain. The social building has been home to the Fischereihafen-Restaurant Natusch for decades.
Amazingly parts of the old fish dispatch hall’s distinctive iron structure found a new purpose. They were incorporated into the construction of the current Fischbahnhof. The result is a striking blend of old and new. The Forum Fischbahnhof as it was initially called opened in 1996. It underwent significant changes. A fish cooking studio was added in 2014. A complete renovation was done in 2020. The “Forum” was dropped from its name. Then in 2021 the 125th anniversary of the Fischereihafen was celebrated here.
Today Fischbahnhof 360° offers two captivating multi-vision shows. These shows run every half hour. They showcase stunning 360° projection technology. It is an unforgettable experience. The shows take you on a journey through the history and present of Bremerhaven’s fishing port. You’ll see stories of its fishing fleet. You’ll discover a wealth of information about fish. There is even an exhibition cafe accessible from the outside.
Before Fischbahnhof 360° the Atlanticum was located here until 2013. Its successor exhibition “Expedition Nordmeere” unfortunately closed early due to low visitor numbers and technical issues. However Fischbahnhof 360° is a success story. It’s a vibrant hub for events. It can accommodate up to 1500 people if all areas are used. It boasts a 600 square meter event space. This space can be transformed to fit various needs. From cocktail receptions to trade shows. The industrial charm of the former fish dispatch station is a highlight.
So step inside Fischbahnhof 360°. Explore its captivating exhibits. Let its stories transport you to a time when Bremerhaven’s fishing industry thrived. Let the sounds of the past combine with the marvels of modern technology. Leave with a deeper appreciation for this city’s unique maritime history.