Drehbrücke Lübeck, Steel swing bridge in Lübeck, Germany.
The Drehbrücke Lübeck is a steel swing bridge in the old city center that opens to let ships pass through. The structure links road traffic and boat traffic through a rotating system that can be operated by hand or motor.
The bridge was built in 1892 to handle growing ship traffic in this Hanseatic city. It came about when Lübeck was modernizing its industrial infrastructure while keeping its role as a port city.
The bridge stands as a protected monument and shows how important harbor trade was for Lübeck as a former Hanseatic city. Visitors can see traces of this maritime past in how the structure is built and where it sits in the city center.
The bridge opens regularly for ships, so visitors should expect short delays when crossing on foot or by car. It helps to check the operating schedule ahead of time or simply allow extra time in case an opening occurs.
The rotating system has been in operation for over 130 years and shows impressive craftsmanship from the 19th century. The mechanics still work whether operated by hand or simple motor, offering rare chances to see this engineering system in action.
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