Right on the banks of the Rhine stands one of Andernach’s most famous landmarks: the “Ols Crane.” This historic harbor crane was built during the Renaissance—between 1554 and 1561—and was a key driver of trade and the economy in the city at the time.
With the help of large wheels driven by crane operators, heavy goods such as tuff stones from the Vulkaneifel, basalt and millstones from the Eifel region, as well as wine barrels from the wine-growing areas along the Rhine and the Moselle, could be loaded onto Rhine ships. From Andernach, these goods were shipped to many regions of Europe.
In this way, the city developed into a major trading center on the Rhine.
A true high-tech system of its time
Particularly remarkable was the sophisticated technology inside the crane, which was state-of-the-art for its time. Two large treadwheels worked in tandem, making it possible to precisely lift and move loads weighing even several metric tons. What electric cranes accomplish today was made possible back then solely through intelligent mechanics, muscle power, and the perfect coordination of the workers—an impressive example of Renaissance engineering.
The Old Crane
The Old Crane was in service for over 350 years before it was decommissioned in 1911. Today, it stands as an impressive industrial monument, serving as a reminder of the role that trade, technology, and innovation played in the region centuries ago.
The Mermaid
There is even a legend surrounding the Alter Krahnen: A mysterious Rhine mermaid is said to have once lured sailors and fishermen here with her song. Whether truth or legend—the story serves as a reminder that, for people in the past, the Rhine was not only a lifeline and trade route, but also a place full of secrets and myths.
Back then, raw materials, building stones, and wine were shipped from the Alter Krahnen to many regions of Europe—today, LTS Lohmann Therapie-Systeme AG brings innovative pharmaceutical technologies from Andernach to the entire world, thereby continuing, in its own way, the city’s long tradition as a gateway to international markets.
We DELIVER.
Foto: (c) 90Grad Photography/Hilger & Schneider GbR
