Page 125 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - SEPT 2025

to destinations

tion to this trend of waterfront transfor-
mation. Today, the Rhine has become
a popular destination for many travel-
lers in the cruise market, with numer-
ous small-scale luxury river cruise ships
attracting a significant share of passen-
gers with high expectations and needs.
Düsseldorf’s local authorities were the
first to take advantage of this popular-
ity and focus on projects that would
enhance the aesthetics of the urban
fabric while also increasing its appeal
to visitors.
Of course, the example set by Düssel-
dorf could not be ignored by neigh-
bouring Cologne. The rivalry between
the two cities, after all, has always been
– and continues to be – ever-present.
Cologne’s riverside was well-suited for
redevelopment in a way that reflects the
city’s historical traditions as well as the
welcoming nature of its residents. Now-
adays, Cologne is undergoing a trans-
formative period, with both public and
private initiatives enhancing the acces-
sibility and attractiveness of its riverside
areas for residents and visitors alike.
These projects aim to foster a vibrant
urban environment that harmoniously
blends historical heritage with modern
urban living.

Public initiatives: Revitalising
the riverside
The Rheinauhafen (Rheinau Harbour)
in Cologne is a prime example of suc-
cessful waterfront redevelopment.
Once a bustling industrial harbour
established in the 1880s, it has been
transformed into a vibrant urban dis-
trict blending modern architecture,
cultural institutions, and sustainable
urban living. Spanning 15.4 hectares
along the river between the Severins-
brücke and the Südbrücke, the area now
hosts a mix of residential, commercial,
and recreational spaces. At the heart
of Rheinauhafen stand the Kranhäuser
(Crane Houses), three striking buildings
designed to resemble harbour cranes.
Completed between 2006 and 2010,
these structures are supported by
slender glass stair towers and feature
cantilevered arms extending over the
river. The middle building, Kranhaus1,
won the MIPIM Award in Cannes in
2009. Today, these buildings house
Photo credits: Naftika Chronika
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