Der Lauenburger Rufer, Bronze sculpture in Lauenburg/Elbe, Germany
The Lauenburg Herald is a bronze sculpture at the steamboat landing that depicts a man in work clothes. The statue represents a historical figure wearing a sailor's cap, rolled-up sleeves, and boots that characterizes the dock workers of the town.
The work was created in 1959 by sculptor Karlheinz Goedtke at the initiative of Mayor Richard Reuter. Its creation aimed to establish a new landmark that would emphasize the town's role as a port city.
The figure embodies this town's long connection with the Elbe River and its vessels, which have shaped the place for centuries. Visitors recognize in the portrayal the everyday life of people dedicated to river shipping.
The sculpture stands right at the landing pier and is easy to reach on foot, especially when walking toward the waterfront. Visitors can examine the details and the bronze plaque without needing to worry about special access or opening hours.
The right thumb of the figure bears a visible shine from countless touches by visitors seeking good fortune. This unintentionally formed patina tells of a hidden tradition that no one deliberately started.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
