The Schwanenstein

The Schwanenstein is a large glacial erratic located approximately 100 metres northeast of the harbour of Lohme on the island of Rügen. The boulder lies in the Baltic Sea and is estimated to weigh around 162 tonnes, with a volume of roughly 60 cubic metres. This makes it the fifth largest among the 20 protected glacial erratics found on Rügen. The Schwanenstein also features in the coat of arms of Lohme, a testament to how proudly the local community regards "their" boulder.

The Origins of the Schwanenstein

Wikimedia The Schwanenstein is composed of hammer granite, an exceptionally hard variety of granite. Exactly how the boulder came to rest in its current location is not entirely certain, though it is widely believed to have been transported from the island of Bornholm during the last Ice Age. On its western side, the rock features a large crack that has been gradually widening over time. Experts believe that a piece of the boulder may eventually break off, as ice crystals forming within the fissure continue to force the two sections further apart.

Legends Surrounding the Schwanenstein

Like all famous landmarks, the Schwanenstein near Lohme has its share of stories and legends. One tale tells of Adebar the stork, who was said to deliver babies by hiding them in the rock's crevice, from where swans would carry them ashore. A far more tragic story unfolded on 13 February 1956. A group of children were playing along the Baltic coast when the weather suddenly turned. A fierce storm caused the ice the boys were playing on to break apart. Several of them drowned, while three managed to cling to the Schwanenstein for safety. Sadly, all rescue attempts failed. Only the following day, once the storm had subsided, could their bodies be recovered from the rock. In 1995, at the initiative of the children of Lohme, a memorial was placed on their grave.