Parey lock, Flight of locks in Elbe-Parey, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany

Parey lock is a water lock structure in Elbe-Parey that uses large gates and sturdy stone and metal walls to raise and lower boats between different water levels. The mechanism works by controlling water flow through the structure, allowing vessels to move smoothly through the canal system.

The wooden Alte Schleuse Parey was built after 1743, when construction of the Plauer Kanal began to shorten the route to Magdeburg and avoid the Elbe's strong current. Between 1888 and 1892, Elbe dikes were raised and a new mouth arm was dug to stop silting; the old arm became the Baggerelbe. The old wooden lock was then replaced by the present two-chamber lock about 1.5 km west in the new arm.

The lock area is accessible on foot or by bicycle and offers a peaceful spot to watch boats and observe how water moves through the structure. Information signs nearby explain the lock's history and how it operates for visitors.

The lock's outer head is fitted with a lifting sector gate and built into the Elbe dike as flood protection. Its Elbe-side gate works in both directions, holding back whichever side carries the higher water. Vessels may pass with a maximum draught of 1.85 m.