Twenty-six meters of steel history dominate the Offenbach skyline. The Blauer Kran (Blue Crane) stands tall, a relic of the old industrial harbor. This isn’t just any crane. It’s a transformed work of art. In 2016, the city of Offenbach, along with Regionalpark RheinMain, decided to breathe new life into this landmark. The winning design, “Crane of the Arts,” came from the artist team Winter/Hoerbelt. They envisioned a publicly accessible, illuminated artwork with a viewing platform. The Blauer Kran was no longer just a disused machine. It became a symbol of transformation, bridging Offenbach’s industrial past with its modern future. The crane’s original walkway was doubled, creating a square base. Atop this sits a large platform, accessible by a broad staircase mimicking the crane’s jib. From this nine-meter-high vantage point, the view is breathtaking. You can see the entire harbor district, and even Frankfurt’s skyline. The crane itself is illuminated at night. The base of the crane hall glows, and various light points mark the dimensions of this technical marvel. The upper part of the crane, above the rotating ring, remains a sanctuary for birds. This juxtaposition of nature and technology creates a unique still life. The Blauer Kran is a testament to Offenbach’s industrial heritage and a beacon of its artistic vision. It’s a must-see attraction on the Regionalpark route, offering a view that stretches from Offenbach to Frankfurt and even as far as the Feldberg in the Taunus.
Adlerwerke
From bicycles to Nazi atrocities, the Adlerwerke in Frankfurt has witnessed a tumultuous history. The Adlerwerke, meaning “Eagle Works,” began