Maritim Museum Peenemünde

Explore the Cold War Relic at Maritim Museum Peenemünde

If you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the Cold War era, a visit to the Maritim Museum Peenemünde in Peenemünde is a must. Anchored in Peenemünde Harbor, this unique museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its main attraction, the Juliet-class Soviet submarine U-461.

A Cold War Relic

The U-461 is the largest conventional submarine in the world, measuring almost 100 meters in length and weighing a staggering 4,000 tons. Built in the early 1960s, it served as part of the Soviet Navy until the retirement of the Juliet-class submarines in the 1980s. After the fall of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, Germany acquired the submarine under complicated circumstances and transformed it into a lifesize museum.

Step Inside the Submarine

As you step aboard the U-461, you'll be transported back in time to the tense days of the Cold War. Inside the submarine, visitors are left essentially unsupervised to explore the various nooks and crannies of the enormous ship. The lack of explanatory notes adds to the sense of mystery, allowing you to focus on the ship itself and uncover its hidden secrets.

Cheesy or Creepy?

One unique aspect of the Maritim Museum Peenemünde is the placement of lifesize models of crew members throughout the submarine. Some may find this effect cheesy, while others might find it slightly creepy. Regardless of your perspective, it adds an interesting touch to the overall experience and helps bring the submarine to life.

Historical Significance

The U-461 is not only a relic of the Cold War but also a reminder of the significant role Peenemünde played during World War II. The Peenemünde Army Research Centre, located nearby, was the largest military research center in Europe from 1936 to 1945. It was here that groundbreaking weapons systems, such as the world's first cruise missile and functioning large-scale rockets, were developed. These weapons were primarily designed as terror weapons against civilian populations and were largely produced by forced laborers.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Maritim Museum Peenemünde, consider planning your trip during the 5th Raumfahrtforum (Space Forum) on October 6, 2023. This event, held at the museum, offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the history of space exploration. Additionally, from August 28 to September 8, 2023, the 30th International Summercamp in Heritage Conservation will take place in Peenemünde, providing a chance to engage in hands-on preservation activities.

Explore the Surroundings

While in Peenemünde, take the time to explore the surrounding area. The Historisch-Technische Museum Peenemünde, also known as the HTM, is another fascinating attraction. It showcases the birthplace of space travel, where renowned scientist Wernher von Braun worked on the development of the V-2 ballistic missile during World War II.

Conclusion

A visit to the Maritim Museum Peenemünde is a journey through time, offering a unique opportunity to explore a Cold War relic and learn about the historical significance of Peenemünde. Whether you're interested in submarines, World War II history, or the space race, this museum has something to captivate every visitor. Plan your visit and prepare to be immersed in a world of secrets and intrigue.