Störtebeker: myth or truth? New research results reveal!

Störtebeker: myth or truth? New research results reveal!

Wismar, Deutschland - What kind of hero we have on land? The legendary captain Störtebeker, of which so many stories are told, not only shaped the maritime life in the Middle Ages, but also raises questions today. On July 20, 2025, a new exhibition opened in the Kröpeliner Tor in Rostock, which deals in detail with the figure Störtebeker. Behind this exciting project is a research project by students from the historical institute of the University 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: Inside, who would like to learn more about the actual background of this mythical figure. Because as the historian Rohmann in the Nordkurier , the traditional history of Störtebeker is based on numerous inconsistencies. So he was not born in Wismar and was not beheaded in Hamburg, but still lived in 1401 and appeared in various annals between 1394 and 1433 under the names Johann and Hans.

Störtebeker: a hero or a shop?

Surprisingly, Dr. Rohmann stated that Störtebeker did not act as a pirate, but rather as a violent actor and safety entrepreneur, who operated in conflicts between Denmark and the Hanseatic League. In fact, merchants in the late Middle Ages who used violence were not necessarily criminal, but often respected citizens. The false law allowed conflicts to clarify violently, provided that one had the legitimation of cities or princely houses. Research has shown that Störtebeker is actually considered an unpleasant businessman, not as a selfless fighter for the good.

How did it come about the celebrated myth? Rohmann emphasizes that Störtebeker's heroic status was promoted under GDR socialism in order to convey a picture of the fighter against richness. This not only brought him popularity, but also acted as a social catalyst, such as through the work "The Vitalia Brothers" by Willi Bredel and the legendary Rügen festival. A true image of the cultural memory that continues to find its place in German history.

The exhibition: A look at the maritime depths

The currently running exhibition, which is open until November 2, 2025, is an excellent opportunity for the citizens: inside of Rostock and beyond, to learn more about maritime violence in Mecklenburg and Pomerania. The students have developed an overall round concept that not only includes exhibits and information boards, but also offers listening stations. Guided tours of the exhibition are carried out by students on selected days, which gives the event a personal touch. The admission prices are very fairly designed with 3 euros for adults and 2 euros.

In addition, the shipping museum in Rostock will also deal with the topic "Pirates. Myth and Reality", which further deepens the examination of the legend of Störtebeker. It remains exciting which new knowledge and discussions will emerge from these initiatives. So if you are looking for a maritime history and a portion of education, you should definitely drop by!