Eidersperrwerk

The Eidersperrwerk is a coastal defense structure on the Eider River near Wesselburenerkoog with five large steel double gates that control water flow. The facility spans around 200 meters and manages the movement of water between the river and the North Sea using mechanical gates.

The structure was built between 1969 and 1973 to protect the inland areas behind it from storm surges and flooding. Its completion marked a major shift in how this region managed coastal water levels through active control rather than passive barriers.

The structure serves as an educational site where visitors learn about water management systems and coastal protection methods in Northern Germany.

Visitors can reach the structure via stairs and walkways to observe the gates from an elevated viewpoint. The best time to visit is during tidal changes when you can clearly see how the water levels shift.

The facility contains a lock about 25 meters long that allows ships to pass through despite different water levels on each side. This system bridges river traffic with coastal protection in a clever way.

Location: Wesselburenerkoog

Inception: January 1, 1973

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Address: 25764 Wesselburenerkoog, Germany

Website: https://eiderstedt.net/eidersperrwerk

GPS coordinates: 54.26453,8.84565

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07