Ostervilm, a 250‑square‑metre Cold War–era artificial island off Germany's Baltic coast, sold in Hamburg for €60,000 after 20 bids, exceeding a €39,000 starting price. The structure, built in the 1950s as a demagnetisation station for East Germany's National People’s Army, was bought by Austrian modular housing firm McCube. The company plans to convert the remote, run‑down site into a cultural and events venue, though substantial restoration and permits will be required.
Crumbling Cold War Platform 'Ostervilm' Sells for €60,000 — Buyer Plans Cultural Events
FILE PHOTO - A view of the former Ostervilm military base in the Greifswald Bodden. (is associated with: «Crumbling Cold War-era naval platform gets €60,000 at German auction») Philip Dulian/dpa
A dilapidated Cold War–era naval platform known as Ostervilm, located off Germany's Baltic Sea coast, sold at auction in Hamburg for €60,000 ($69,750) on Thursday, topping a €39,000 opening bid after 20 bids.
The buyer was McCube, an Austrian company that specialises in modular housing. McCube chief executive Oliver Pesendorfer said the firm intends to convert the 250-square-metre artificial island into a cultural and events venue, potentially hosting weddings and other gatherings.
Built in the 1950s for East Germany's National People’s Army, Ostervilm once served as a demagnetisation station designed to reduce ships' magnetic signatures and help protect them from naval mines. The structure's remote location and run-down condition mean any redevelopment will require significant restoration work and regulatory approvals.
“We were on the phone every day with people from all over Germany – with dozens, probably even several hundred interested parties who were curious,”
said Kai Rocholl, a board member of auction house Norddeutsche Grundstücksauktionen AG, reflecting the strong public interest that preceded the sale.
McCube said Pesendorfer had initially planned to bid alone but teamed up with another entrant shortly before the auction; the pair decided spontaneously to pool their offers. The sale highlights growing interest in unusual and historic properties, even those that come with major logistical and conservation challenges.
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