Exciting Relocation for Iconic "Red Sand" Lighthouse
Lighthouse is run-down and requires repairs.
In a unique turn of events, the legendary "Red Sand" Lighthouse, a German landmark in less-than-stellar shape, is due for a move off the shores to the mainland. Several cities are vying for the distinguished structure, hoping it'll become their new tourist attraction. But where will the maritime treasure call home?
Picture this: one of Germany's most recognizable sea marks, the "Red Sand" Lighthouse, has seen better days. The structure, standing tall in the Weser estuary since the late 19th century, is taking a beating from the wind and waves. To preserve this historic beauty, it's time for a massive relocation. So who gets the prize?
Wilhelmshaven, Bremerhaven, Hooksiel in Frisian Wangerland, and Fedderwardersiel on the Butjadingen peninsula have all thrown their hats in the ring. According to Thomas Mertz, spokesperson for the German Foundation for Monument Protection, no city has a clear advantage at the moment. The federal government owns the lighthouse, and the foundation is managing the property.
But don't think a decision has already been made. Work is ongoing, and you might hear some exciting news this summer. Mertz shares, "We're trying to make a decision quickly, but with such a unique event, we won't rush into anything."
Moving a lighthouse isn't a common occurrence. In 2019, the Rubjerg Knude lighthouse in Denmark was moved only 70 meters away from a cliff, but the "Red Sand" Lighthouse is expected to travel dozens of kilometers from the sea to the mainland.
No final date has been set for the move, but a 2019 report declared the lighthouse's condition so poor that its long-term stability was at risk. The sea light has been inactive since 1964, and it's been under monument protection since 1982.
There are roughly 150 lighthouses along the German North and Baltic Sea coasts. Even though some have gone out of commission, they remain popular attractions for tourists seeking unique photo opportunities or maritime curiosities. So, four cities are dangling their best carrot to lure the "Red Sand" Lighthouse.
Fedderwardersiel's Strong Case for Proximity
Fedderwardersiel is pitching hard for the spot, touting its close proximity to the lighthouse's original home at the mouth of the Weser. According to local tourism, preserving the maritime reference that has characterized the lighthouse since its inception is key. The harbor would also house a popular crab fishing spot, adding to the charm.
Hooksiel's Nashville South
On the other side of the Jade, the municipality of Wangerland, with the seaside resort of Hooksiel, is making its move. "Hooksiel is perfect for the lighthouse, " Roter Sand," due to its location near the outer harbor, tourist infrastructure, proximity to the North Sea, and cultural roots," Wangerland Mayor Mario Szlezak said.
Wilhelmshaven Goes for the Great Harbor
Wilhelmshaven has joined the running, setting its sights on the Wiesbaden Bridge in the Great Harbor. City building director Nikša Marušić believes the area would be a suitable match, meeting essential criteria like ensuring no confusion with other navigational aids.
Bremerhaven Wants to Keep Its Emigrant Icon
Bremerhaven is back in contention but faces some hurdles. The city's original site proposal on the Külken peninsula was rejected due to concerns from the waterways and shipping administration. Now, Bremerhaven has offered another site in Lunesiel, south of the city, for consideration.
Various criteria will factor into the location choice, such as water ambiance, accessibility, and preservation of the surrounding area. Once the location is identified, further architectural and financial aspects will be addressed with the parties involved. The German Foundation for Monument Protection is working closely with the state of Lower Saxony to make the best decision for both the lighthouse and the communities that passionately support it.
- The German Foundation for Monument Protection is considering several factors for the relocation of the Red Sand Lighthouse, including water ambiance, accessibility, and preservation of the surrounding area.
- In the race for the iconic Red Sand Lighthouse, Wilhelmshaven area is proposing the Wiesbaden Bridge in the Great Harbor due to its suitability in meeting essential criteria such as ensuring no confusion with other navigational aids.
- Fedderwardersiel is stressing proximity to the lighthouse's original home at the mouth of the Weser and the preservation of the maritime reference that has characterized the lighthouse since its inception, making it a strong contender.
- Hooksiel in Frisian Wangerland is pushing for the Red Sand Lighthouse with its location near the outer harbor, tourist infrastructure, proximity to the North Sea, and cultural roots, positioning it as an attractive choice for the structure's new home.
