Störtebeker: myth or truth? New research revealed!

Störtebeker: myth or truth? New research revealed!

What kind of hero do we have on land? The legendary Captain Störtebeker, about whom so many stories are told, not only shaped maritime life in the Middle Ages, but also still raises questions today. On July 20, 2025, a new exhibition opened at the Kröpeliner Tor in Rostock that deals in detail with the figure Störtebeker. Behind this exciting project is a research project by students from the Institute of History University of Rostock, led by Professor Gregor Rohmann and Professor Oliver Plessow.

The opening of the exhibition entitled “Störtebeker in Rostock” took place on July 18, 2025 and has since attracted visitors who want to learn more about the actual background of this mythical figure. Because as the historian Rohmann in the Northern Courier shows, the traditional story of Störtebeker is based on numerous inconsistencies. So he was not born in Wismar and was not beheaded in Hamburg, but was still alive in 1401 and appears in various annals between 1394 and 1433 under the names Johann and Hans.

Störtebeker: A hero or a profiteer?

Surprisingly, Dr. Rohmann determined that Störtebeker did not act as a pirate, but rather as a violent actor and security contractor who operated in conflicts between Denmark and the Hanseatic League. In fact, merchants in the late Middle Ages who used violence were not necessarily criminals, but were often respected citizens. The law of feuds allowed conflicts to be resolved by force, provided one had the legitimacy of cities or royal houses. Research has shown that Störtebeker was actually seen as an unpleasant businessman, not a selfless fighter for good.

How did the myth so celebrated come about? Rohmann emphasizes that Störtebeker's hero status was promoted under GDR socialism in order to convey an image of a fighter against the rich. This not only brought him popularity, but also acted as a social catalyst, for example through the work “The Vitalienbrüder” by Willi Bredel and the legendary Rügen Festival. A true reflection of cultural memory that continues to find its place in German history.

The exhibition: A look into the maritime depths

The current exhibition, which is open until November 2, 2025, is an excellent opportunity for the citizens of Rostock and beyond to learn more about maritime violence in Mecklenburg and Pomerania. The students have developed an overall well-rounded concept that not only includes exhibits and information boards, but also offers listening stations. Guided tours of the exhibition are conducted by students on selected days, which gives the event a personal touch. The entry prices are very fair at 3 euros for adults and 2 euros reduced.

In addition, the Maritime Museum in Rostock will also deal with the topic “Pirates: Myth and Reality”, which will further deepen the discussion of the legend of Störtebeker. It remains exciting to see what new insights and discussions will emerge from these initiatives. So if you are looking for maritime history and a dose of education, you should definitely stop by!