After a long period of planning, construction began in 1906 on what was a gigantic project at the time: the Rhine-Weser Canal. A 341 metre long bridge leads the Mittelland Canal over the Weser, forming one of the largest waterway crossings in the world.

In order to get from the Mittelland Canal to the Weser or vice versa, the shaft lock was built in 1914. As this no longer meets the requirements of today's ships, the Weser lock was opened right next to the shaft lock in 2017, which now also enables locking for large motor cargo ships.

The information centre at the shaft lock has more information on the German waterway network and inland shipping transport systems for you. This is open from April to October from Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 17:00 and on Sundays and public holidays from 09:00 to 18:00.

There is also an experience trail on site, which connects the sights at Oberhafen and the waterway cross in a circular tour. The tour is approx. 4 km long. In addition to the locks, you will see the Sympher monument, the sailing mast of the Holfast skippers' association, the large and small pumping station and many other exciting attractions. The other attractions can also be found as excursion destinations in the Teutonavigator.