Lighthouse Contenders: Red Sand Seeks Relocation
In the heart of Germany's coastline, a renowned landmark, the "Roter Sand" lighthouse, is poised for an epic journey from its current watery abode to solid ground. But where will this iconic beacon of the sea find its new haven? Contenders are lining up as tourist locales vie for the red-and-white tower's prestigious move.
Once a stalwart against the dangerous waves of the Weser estuary, this almost-centenarian structure now stands in need of a new home—one that will guarantee its safety and longevity. The German Foundation for Monument Protection, in charge of the property, is leading the charge to find the perfect location, and several hopeful destinations are throwing their hats into the ring.
Wilhelmshaven, Bremerhaven, Hooksiel in the Frisian Wangerland, and Fedderwardersiel on the peninsula of Butjadingen are all staking their claims to become the lighthouse's new beaming light. Yet, no clear frontrunner has emerged, leaving the decision wide open.
While no definitive decision has been made, work is progressing. According to Thomas Mertz, the foundation's spokesperson, they are passionate about making the right choice, but they don't want to rush it given the uniqueness of the relocation project.
Moving a lighthouse isn't exactly a routine task. Though Denmark managed a relatively short move for the Rubjerg Knude lighthouse in 2019, Germany's Roter Sand is expected to traverse dozens of kilometers from the sea to the mainland.
The need for relocation wasn't just a whim. A 2019 assessment classified the lighthouse as critically deteriorated, raising concerns about its long-term stability and safety. No longer operational since 1964, the structure is a protected monument since 1982.
The assessment led to an expert commission weighing various solutions, from allowing the structure to decay naturally to renovating it on-site or moving the tower entirely. Their final verdict? Disassemble and reassemble the tower on land. However, the timeline for the relocation hasn't been set yet.
The adventurous relocation of Roter Sand is attracting more attention as the shipping and waterways administration reports about 150 lighthouses along the German North and Baltic Sea coasts. Even though many, like Roter Sand, are no longer functioning, they still pique interest among travelers. With its new home up for grabs, four destinations are keen on welcoming the lighthouse "Roter Sand."
Fedderwardersiel, a crab fishing harbor on the peninsula of Butjadingen, hopes its proximity to the lighthouse's original area makes it the ideal home. The tourism service for the area boasts of preserving the maritime charm that had characterized the lighthouse since its inception.
On the other side of the Jade, the Frisian municipality of Wangerland puts forth its seaside resort of Hooksiel as a suitable candidate. Mayor Mario Szlezak states that Hooksiel, with its cultural heritage, proximity to the North Sea, and existing tourist infrastructure, would provide the perfect permanent resting spot for the lighthouse.
But the pool of applicants hasn't stopped growing. Wilhelmshaven has declared its interest in the so-called Wiesbaden Bridge, a small piece of land in the Great Harbor, as a potential location. City officials believe this site would meet several criteria for the lighthouse's relocation, such as the absence of confusion with other navigation aids.
Bremerhaven has reentered the competition with a fresh proposal after initial concerns raised by the waterways and shipping administration forced it to reconsider. The city has suggested a new location in the Lunesiel on the Weser in the south of the city.
With some sites offering better logistics and others maintaining a closer connection to the lighthouse's past, the Foundation is busy gathering and considering every bit of information to make the most informed decision. Once a location is chosen, the question of construction and financial aspects will be tackled.
The cost of relocating the lighthouse remains undisclosed, but one thing is certain: the Roter Sand will keep its iconic red-and-white stripes no matter where it ends up.
The Roter Sand lighthouse, slated for a new home, is not just seeking a hospitable location, but also a place that assures its preservation and future. Wilhelmshaven, Bremerhaven, Hooksiel in the Frisian Wangerland, and Fedderwardersiel on the peninsula of Butjadingen are all aiming to integrate the historic home-and-garden of the red-and-white tower into their unique lifestyle.
