Der Alte Kran
Quelle: Stadt Bingen
The old Rhine crane stands next to the former customs administration in the former harbour in Bingen.
The crane was mentioned as early as in the 15th century. The present day swivel and cantilever crane was built in 1613 in accordance with plans drawn up by the builder, Riedinger in Aschaffenburg. After it was renovated in 1819 the building was protected from demolition by the monument protection law of 1907. The crane was badly damaged in the second world war, but has been repaired since 1950. There was comprehensive restoration in 2005.
The crane was powered by muscle power, using a treadmill. The upper part of the dome with the cantilever arm could be turned with a large lever. Mainly wine, salt and grain were loaded here. For the last two items, Bingen had the storage right. In the Middle Ages the water almost reached its wall.