Pommernkogge Ucra: Maintenance work in Wolgast before the big test!

Pommernkogge Ucra: Maintenance work in Wolgast before the big test!

The traditional Pomeranian cog “Ucra” from Torgelow is currently at the Peene shipyard in Wolgast, where it is being refreshed in regular maintenance work. After her last port visit to Ueckermünde, where she is active as a home anchor, the sailing gem is now on keel. “Ucra” undergoes a thorough inspection every three years to ensure that it receives the necessary maritime certification. Maintenance is currently being carried out on the hull, while the actual inspection is scheduled for next week, as ndr.de reports.

The history of the “Ucra” began in 2001 with the reconstruction of this medieval Baltic cog, which was built in the historic shipyard of the Ukranenland. Its construction is based on historical models, including a ship model from Ebersdorf, Saxony, around 1450. In 2011, the cog became the property of the city of Torgelow and has since been operated by the traditional ship association “Ucra – die Pommernkogge e.V.” operated. The ship has since conquered the seas and made around 500 trips in total. “Ucra” not only serves as a floating museum, but also as an important contact point for guided tours and project days that draw attention to the maritime heritage of the Hanseatic cities, as can be found on the Pommernkogge website: pommernkogge-ucra.de.

A piece of Hanseatic history

The emergence of the Hanseatic League and its economic power in the Middle Ages is closely linked to the maritime heritage that “Ucra” embodies. An extensive economic area was created with trading branches that German merchants opened on Gotland in the 13th century and later in other Hanseatic cities. These cities, including Lübeck and Hamburg, coordinated their interests, resulting in considerable political power. The merchants became wealthy, and this change in wealth strengthened the citizens' self-confidence compared to the nobility, as planet-wissen.de explains.

In the context of the Hanseatic League, the “Ucra” was more than just a ship. It embodies an era in which coastal and inland cities such as Rostock and Cologne found their place in international trade. The cog allows visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating history of the Baltic Sea and Hanseatic era and offers day trips that trace the route of historical trade routes.

A connection to this history remains alive through regular offers for school classes, youth groups and history enthusiasts, which are intended to spread both knowledge and enthusiasm for the rich trading history of the Hanseatic League. Finally, there is also potential for special occasions such as weddings and company events - which makes “Ucra” a special place and experience.

The chairman of the sponsoring association, Lothar Hoffmann, knows the importance of this traditional ship: “Our aim is to convey the history of Pomeranian seafaring and to keep the heritage of the Hanseatic League alive.” With the upcoming review of her condition, it is clear that Ucra is not just a warship of the past, but a symbol of the living maritime heritage that continues to inspire many people.