Lübeck remains without a European Hanseatic Museum: financial problems stop the takeover

Lübeck remains without a European Hanseatic Museum: financial problems stop the takeover

The European Hanseatic Museum (EHM) remains in private hands for the time being. Due to the strained budget situation, the city of Lübeck cannot take over the important cultural heritage. A corresponding template for the citizens was published at the beginning of December 2025 and caused a stir in the region. The Possehl Foundation, which has so far acted as the sole shareholder, has agreed to remain in this role and to offset the operating cost deficit for another 15 years. Nevertheless, the financial burden remains a significant shadow: despite the high number of visitors, the museum makes a loss of around 3.8 million euros every year.

The city initially planned to make the land available for the museum and pay an annual sum of 400,000 euros to support its operation. The foundation should cover the additional costs. According to the original plan, after ten years, i.e. in 2025, the city should take complete responsibility for the operating costs and take over the museum. But the city's current budget situation has dashed this dream. This means that the important cultural and historical institution remains in the hands of the Possehl Foundation for the time being, which is committed to ensuring a sustainable future for the house.

Cultural significance of the Hanseatic Museum

The EHM is not just a common exhibition venue, but an important cultural and educational center that keeps the history of the Hanseatic League alive. The Hanseatic League was the most powerful trading network of the Middle Ages, and Lübeck became one of the most important trading partners thanks to its strategic location in the Baltic Sea. The museum contributes to shaping the modern understanding of business and trade and continues to anchor these topics in politics, society and culture.

• Wichtige Punkte zur Hanse:
• Einfluss auf die europäische Wirtschaftsgeschichte
• Kulturelle Zusammenarbeit mit dem ‘Forschungszentrum für die Geschichte der Hanse und der Ostseeregion’
• Modernes Bildungsangebot für die Öffentlichkeit

But the financial problems cast a shadow over the impressive role the museum plays in society. The interactive exhibition attracts numerous visitors and stimulates lively discussions about the trade relationships of the past and their significance for the present.

At a time when museum visits and cultural education are very popular, it remains to be hoped that there is a sustainable way out of the financial misery for the European Hanseatic Museum. The city and the foundation have a responsibility to work together on a solution to preserve the historic heritage of the Hanseatic League for future generations.

Further information about the museum and its history can be found on the official website of the European Hanseatic Museum.

We will of course keep you up to date on current developments. Stay tuned!