Kiel Maritime Museum

Situated on the picturesque Sartorikai, the Kiel Maritime Museum (Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel) is a captivating destination that offers a deep dive into the rich maritime history of the bustling port city of Kiel. With its stunning location by the waterfront and housed in a historic former fish auction hall, the museum is a treasure trove for those keen to explore the maritime legacy and seafaring traditions that have shaped this region for centuries.

The History of the Kiel Maritime Museum

The Kiel Maritime Museum is housed in a building with a history as fascinating as the exhibits it contains. The structure, originally known as the Fischauktionshalle, was opened in 1910. Designed by the city architect Georg Pauly, the hall was intended to centralize the fish trade and protect it from adverse weather conditions. The building's distinctive architecture, with its high roof and impressive façade, made it a notable landmark from the start.

Despite its grand design, the hall did not meet the expectations for its intended purpose. It was too small for auctions, and the shops and stalls within it struggled to find tenants. After surviving World War II without damage, the hall lost its primary function in 1948 when the fish market moved to the Schwentine estuary. It stood vacant for many years, and in 1966, a decision was made to demolish it. However, the building was saved when it was placed under monument protection in 1972.

The Transformation into a Museum

In 1978, the historic fish auction hall was given a new lease on life as the Kiel Maritime Museum. The museum officially opened its doors on April 30, 1978, and has since become a key cultural institution in Kiel. Following extensive renovations that began in 2010, the museum was reopened with a newly oriented exhibition on April 25, 2014. The museum's permanent exhibition focuses on various aspects of Kiel's maritime history, including its fishing industry, the Kiel Canal, marine painting, and numerous ship models and nautical equipment.

One of the museum's most intriguing exhibits is a segment of the wreck of the mini-submarine Seehund, which was recovered from the Kiel Fjord in 1995 during the construction of the third ferry terminal. The museum also features a new permanent exhibition, Navy, Shipyards, Sailing, which opened in August 2020, showcasing the diverse maritime heritage of Kiel.

Exploring the Museum's Exhibits

Visitors to the Kiel Maritime Museum can embark on a journey through time, exploring the various facets of Kiel's maritime history. The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully curated to provide an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Highlights include detailed ship models that offer a glimpse into the evolution of shipbuilding and the technological advancements that have shaped maritime travel over the years.

Another fascinating aspect of the museum is its collection of marine paintings, which beautifully capture the essence of life at sea. These artworks, alongside nautical instruments and artifacts, help paint a vivid picture of the maritime traditions that have been an integral part of Kiel's identity.

The Museumsbrücke Seegarten

Adjacent to the museum is the Museumsbrücke Seegarten, a museum jetty that houses a collection of historic vessels. Here, visitors can explore the rescue cruiser Hindenburg, the fireboat, the passenger ship Stadt Kiel, and the buoy tender Bussard, which dates back to 1906. These vessels provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to step aboard and imagine what life was like for the sailors who once navigated these waters.

In front of the museum, the lantern of the lightship Kiel, later known as the sailing training ship Alexander von Humboldt, stands as a beacon of the city's maritime heritage. This historic piece adds to the museum's charm and serves as a reminder of Kiel's long-standing connection to the sea.

Special Exhibitions

The Kiel Maritime Museum also hosts special exhibitions that delve into specific aspects of maritime history. One notable exhibition was held in 2018 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Kiel Sailors' Revolt, which opened on May 6, 2018, and ran until March 17, 2019. These temporary exhibitions provide fresh perspectives and new insights, ensuring that there is always something new to discover at the museum.

Conclusion

The Kiel Maritime Museum is more than just a museum; it is a celebration of the city's deep-rooted maritime traditions and its enduring relationship with the sea. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a maritime aficionado, or simply looking for an engaging and educational outing, the museum offers a wealth of exhibits and experiences that are sure to captivate and inspire. From its historic building and fascinating exhibits to the historic vessels moored at the Museumsbrücke Seegarten, the Kiel Maritime Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant city of Kiel.