Oestricher Kran, Historical harbour crane in Oestrich-Winkel, Germany.
Oestricher Kran is a stone structure on the Rhine riverbank equipped with treadmills and winch systems designed to move cargo. The building displays the characteristic form of a medieval crane and stands directly at the water's edge where ships once docked for loading and unloading.
Built in 1745, the structure operated for more than 150 years before ceasing work in 1926. During that time it remained essential equipment for any ship changing cargo along the Rhine.
The crane was once central to the wine trade that defined this region and reveals how the river shaped local commerce. Visitors can see today how the structure itself reflects the practical demands of moving goods between boats and the shore.
The monument stands directly on the Rhine riverbank in central Oestrich-Winkel and is easily reached on foot. The best time to visit is outside midday hours when there is less passing traffic on the river.
Inside the crane two large treadmills operated by workers using their body weight powered the winch mechanisms. These human-powered machines allowed heavy loads to be transferred from ship to shore without motors or external power sources.
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