The Inquiry into the Origins of the Name
A New Chapter for Lübeck's Historic Lastadie
The Lastadie area in Lübeck, Germany, has a rich history rooted in maritime and commercial activities. Originally known as a "loading place" or "goods station," Lastadie developed into a bustling warehouse and harbor zone along the Trave River, playing a crucial role in supporting Lübeck's extensive trade and shipping activities during the Hanseatic League period.
The name Lastadie, derived from the Low German word, signified the area's core function as a centre for loading, storing, and transporting goods by ship. Its strategic location on the Trave Riverbank facilitated easy access for ships and shipbuilding activities, including the construction, maintenance, and outfitting of vessels critical to Lübeck's maritime economy.
Over the years, Lastadie became characterized by a dense cluster of warehouses, dockyards, and shipyards on the riverbank. This concentration supported not only the storage and trade of imported and exported goods but also the craftsmanship and industry of shipbuilding, servicing trading vessels navigating the Baltic Sea. The Trave River's navigability made it an ideal location for these combined functions.
However, the redevelopment of Wallhalbinsel at the beginning of the 1990s marked a significant turning point for Lastadie. During this period, the remaining railway tracks and businesses were removed to make way for a hotel and the Musik- und Kongresshalle. Regrettably, the largest part of Lastadie disappeared during this redevelopment, but a small section was incorporated into the new course of Straße Auf der Wallhalbinsel, which was renamed Willy-Brandt-Allee.
Interestingly, a new street named Lastadie was constructed in 1934, starting at Holstentorplatz and running parallel to Straße Auf der Wallhalbinsel. Today, this new Lastadie connects Marienstraße at the turning bridge with Willy-Brandt-Allee, forming the current Lastadie. The street Am Holstenhafen at the turning bridge was renamed Lastadie, reflecting the area's historical significance.
Despite the changes, the Lastadie remains located on the Wallhalbinsel, on the western bank of the Trave. Although the southern part of Lastadie was no longer in use by the end of the 19th century, the area's maritime heritage continues to resonate, offering a glimpse into Lübeck's rich past as a Hanseatic city built upon trade, shipbuilding, and access to waterways.
In the reimagining of Lastadie, one can envision a transformation of its original home-and-garden of warehouses and dockyards into a lifestyle hub, celebrating Lübeck's maritime heritage. The renovated Lastadie street, bridging Marienstraße and Willy-Brandt-Allee, could serve as a unique display of home-and-garden aesthetics, incorporating elements of the area's historic past while catering to contemporary needs.
