Schleuse 100
Schleuse 100 marks the Bamberg end of the historic Ludwig‑Danube‑Main Canal (LDMC)—a place where hydraulic engineering, transport history and local recreation intersect. Set among trees and meadows, the stone lock chamber, small bridges and banks make for a quiet stroll and a tangible slice of engineering history. [1][2][3]
Why it’s worth a stop
- Last lock of the historic canal: Number 100 denotes the final LDMC lock within Bamberg. On site you can read the classic rectangular chamber with gate abutments and embankments. [1][2]
- Waterfront photo angles: Bridges, reflections and the chamber’s crisp geometry create strong perspectives, especially in calm conditions. [2][3]
- Green paths: The section links up with riverside and cycle paths and is easy to combine with a city walk. [2]
Context & background
In the nineteenth century the Ludwig‑Danube‑Main Canal connected the catchments of the Danube and the Main with a chain of locks. Bamberg’s Lock 100 is among the notably preserved works along the line and makes the canal’s function legible in the urban area; regional overviews list it as a sight and technical monument. [1][2][3]
Although the modern Main‑Danube Canal handles long‑distance traffic today, Lock 100 preserves the architectural language of the Old Canal: sandstone masonry, straight‑lined chambers, adjacent bridges and slopes—technology and landscape in direct dialogue. [1][3]
Engineering made visible
Locks compensate changes in elevation by raising or lowering boats within a chamber. At Lock 100 you can identify chamber walls, gate seats and traces of former sluices. Following the layout reveals how inflow and outflow were guided and where paths and bridges cross the structure. The clarity of the geometry—right‑angled edges, parallel walls—makes it particularly instructive. [1][3]
Walk & photo tips
Start upstream of the chamber and continue along the bank wall to the bridge. Small shifts in position change how the section reads; a low viewpoint emphasises vanishing lines. In still weather the water surface yields sharp reflections. Detail‑seekers will enjoy masonry bonds, edge roundings and joints—marks of stonemasons’ craft. [2][3]
Plan your visit
- Location & access: Lock 100 lies in southern Bamberg along the historic LDMC. The linked pages offer maps and photo guides to plan access. [1][2]
- Combinations: Nearby riverside paths allow short loops; you can also link the visit with Regnitz riverfronts and inner‑city bridge ensembles. [2][3]
- Notes: Banks can be wet or slippery depending on weather; watch your step, protect the embankments and follow on‑site signage. [2]
Nearby
- Don Bosco Ferry – small river crossing near the city.
- Villa Concordia
About this page: editorial summary based on the linked regional sources. Last reviewed 2025-11-04.