Schwimmkran Langer Heinrich

Towering over the harbor, the Schwimmkran “Langer Heinrich” stands as a testament to the ingenuity of German shipbuilding. This massive floating crane, a true icon of Rostock, has witnessed the rise and fall of industries and the evolution of the city’s waterfront. Built in 1905, the Langer Heinrich was initially christened with the same name as the famous floating crane in Bremerhaven. From its inception, it was one of the largest floating cranes ever constructed. Its original purpose was to help construct ships in the neighboring shipyard. The crane’s name, which translates to “Long Henry,” is just as iconic as its towering structure. The Schwimmkran served an important role in the city’s shipbuilding history, lifting massive parts and even entire ship hulls. After decades of service in the bustling harbor, the Langer Heinrich was retired in 1978. Recognizing its historical significance, The Rostock Shipbuilding and Maritime Museum embraced the crane as a valuable exhibit in 1980. Today, the Schwimmkran “Langer Heinrich” stands proudly as a centerpiece of the museum’s open-air exhibition. It is a poignant reminder of Rostock’s maritime heritage and the remarkable ingenuity that fueled its shipbuilding industry.