High above Rostock’s harbor stands the Hellingkran a giant of steel and history. This isn’t just any crane. This majestic structure has witnessed centuries of shipbuilding. It has silently borne witness to the rise and fall of the Neptun shipyard.
For decades the Hellingkran tirelessly lifted massive ship components. Its powerful arms once moved with precision and purpose. It was a crucial part of Rostock’s maritime past. Then in 1976 the crane found itself on the former grounds of the Neptun Werft. Years passed. Its role as a hardworking machine ended. The Neptun shipyard shrunk. It moved its operations elsewhere. The bustling activity faded. The Hellingkran stood silent. A monument to a bygone era. Its days of lifting colossal weights were over.
But the story doesn’t end there. The Hellingkran’s imposing stature caught the eye of Roland Methling. He was the former mayor of Rostock and chairman of the Förderverein Tradition Ostseeschiffahrt. Methling a former engineer knew the crane’s history intimately. He knew its value. He had a vision a bold vision to transform this industrial relic. His plan? A unique Kranhotel.
The Förderverein Tradition Ostseeschiffahrt secured funding. They poured 1.5 million euros into the project. Many companies participated. This involved much more than just a simple facelift. The project even included installing a glass elevator to reach the top. Brinkmann Stahl- und Metallbau GmbH & Co KG faced some challenges. The shipyard’s slope and the windy weather complicated the construction. The glass panes were at risk. But their team persisted working early mornings to beat the wind.
The result is nothing short of spectacular. The Hellingkran now boasts a wedding chapel. It also offers a unique hotel suite. The former crane operator’s cabin is transformed into a dining room. From here guests enjoy breathtaking views of Warnemünde. The crane itself is sturdy and can withstand even the strongest storms. So guests need not worry about high winds.
Today the Hellingkran stands as a symbol of Rostock’s enduring spirit. It’s a testament to its ability to adapt and reinvent itself. This is more than just a hotel. It is a living piece of history. It is a place where modern comforts meet historical grandeur. The Hellingkran has found a new purpose. A fitting tribute to its long and storied past.