Karnin Lift Bridge
Facts and practical information
The Karnin Lift Bridge stands as an enduring relic of German engineering and a poignant historical monument in the landscape of Usedom Island, Germany. Constructed in the early 20th century, the bridge was part of a vital railway connection that was severed during World War II. Despite the destruction of the central section by retreating German troops in 1945, the remaining lift section still stands today, a silent sentinel beside the Peenestrom strait.
This impressive structure was originally designed to accommodate the passage of large ships by lifting a central section of the bridge vertically between two towering supports. Though its operational days are long past, the Karnin Lift Bridge remains a significant attraction for both history enthusiasts and engineering aficionados. Its rusting form, with mechanisms frozen in time, offers a glimpse into an era of industrious might and the tumultuous events that have shaped modern Europe.
The bridge's lift section, although no longer connected to any traversable route, still attracts visitors who are eager to witness the grandeur of early 20th-century engineering. Its presence also serves as a reminder of the once flourishing railway system that played a crucial role in the region's development.
Mecklenburg-West Pomerania
Karnin Lift Bridge – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Schloßsee, Großer See, Usedom Abbey, Sankt Marien Kirche.