Wouldn’t you agree that even a simple plaque can tell an interesting story? Right here, affixed to a wall, is the “Dies war der erste Bahnhof in Travemünde” plaque in Lübeck. It marks the spot of the first railway station in Travemünde. This station played a vital role in the town’s development.
The Lübeck-Büchen Railway Company built the original station. The railway from Lübeck to Travemünde opened in 1882. Initially, the line terminated at Travemünde Hafen station. This plaque commemorates that original location.
Increased passenger numbers soon demanded expansion. In 1898, the railway line extended to Travemünde Strand station. The original harbor station became less important.
The Lübeck-Travemünde Hafen station saw changes over the years. A branch line to Niendorf opened in 1913. This improved tourist access. Fritz Klingholz designed a new station building. He had also designed the Travemünde Strand station. The Niendorf branch line closed in 1974.
In 1996, the station building was sold. It now serves as a restaurant. The station has been heritage-listed since 1992. Modernization occurred in 2004. A new outdoor platform was constructed. It was built on the former track 1 next to the station building. The island platform on tracks 2 and 3 was abandoned. Freight tracks were also dismantled.
Since 2008, the station and track have been electrified. Today, the RE 8 and RB 86 trains stop here. They run between Hamburg Hauptbahnhof and Lübeck-Travemünde Strand.
This plaque reminds us of Travemünde’s railway history. It connects the present to the past. The “Dies war der erste Bahnhof in Travemünde” plaque marks progress. It signifies the evolution of transportation in this vibrant seaside town. So, take a moment to appreciate this piece of history. Imagine the trains that once arrived here. Think of the passengers eager to experience Travemünde. The plaque stands as a silent witness to a bygone era.