The Schaffermahlzeit: A Culinary and Maritime Tradition Spanning Centuries
In the bustling city of Bremen, an extraordinary culinary and maritime tradition has been observed for centuries: the Schaffermahlzeit. This illustrious banquet, one of the oldest friendship feasts in the world, brings together captains, merchants, and distinguished guests from home and abroad.
A Rich History: Origins in Maritime Camaraderie
The Schaffermahlzeit has its roots in the 16th century, when Bremen served as a thriving port city. In 1545, a group of maritime merchants established the Stiftung Haus Seefahrt, a foundation dedicated to supporting seafarers, their families, and aspiring nautical students. To commemorate this noble mission, the Schaffermahlzeit was born as a gathering where the foundation’s benefactors could bond over a shared meal.
The 481st Schaffermahlzeit: A Grand Occasion
The 481st Schaffermahlzeit, held on the afternoon of February 14, 2023, continued this long-standing tradition. A total of 300 men and women assembled in the magnificent Rathaus, Bremen’s iconic town hall, for an extraordinary five-hour culinary experience.
A Prescribed Menu: Traditional Seemannskost
The meal, meticulously prepared and served according to an exact schedule, featured a delectable array of traditional Seemannskost, or seafarers’ cuisine. Highlights included:
- Hühnersuppe: A comforting chicken broth, a nod to the nourishing meals enjoyed on long voyages.
- Stockfisch: Dried cod, a staple food for sailors due to its long shelf life and high protein content.
- Pinkel: A savory sausage made from pork, oats, and spices, a local delicacy from the Bremen area.
- Grützwurst: A sausage made from barley, groats, and pork fat, another regional specialty.
Speeches and Toasts: Honoring Tradition and Maritime Heritage
Throughout the meal, eloquent speeches and toasts were delivered, paying homage to the history, traditions, and charitable mission of the Stiftung Haus Seefahrt. The guest of honor, Hendrik Wüst, the Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia, highlighted the importance of supporting seafarers and the maritime industry.
A Culinary and Philanthropic Feast
The Schaffermahlzeit serves not only as a culinary extravaganza but also as a significant fundraising event. Donations collected during the feast go towards supporting the Stiftung Haus Seefahrt and its multifaceted programs. Over the years, millions of euros have been raised, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals connected to the maritime realm.
A Living Legacy: Preserving Maritime Culture
The Schaffermahlzeit stands as a testament to Bremen’s rich maritime heritage. By preserving ancient traditions and celebrating the camaraderie of those who sail the seas, this unique event ensures that the history and spirit of seafaring live on.
Additional Insights:
- The Schaffermahlzeit is organized and financed by the Schaffers, a group of volunteers who manage the Stiftung Haus Seefahrt.
- The menu has remained largely unchanged over the centuries, reflecting the traditional dishes enjoyed by sailors in the past.
- The guest list includes prominent figures from politics, business, and the shipping industry.
- The event is open to both men and women, a testament to the evolving nature of maritime traditions.
- The Schaffermahlzeit is a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance.
