Liebherr MK 88-4.1E Mobile Construction Crane on Herreninsel: Winter Protection for Historic Castle Fountains
- Meagan Wood
- 10 hours ago
- 4 min read
30-Second Takeaway
The Liebherr MK 88-4.1E mobile construction crane played a critical role in preparing the historic fountains at Herrenchiemsee Palace for winter, enabling precise placement of scaffolding and protective coverings over delicate 13-metre structures. Transported via cargo ferry by BKL Baukran Logistik, the crane’s high hook height, trolley travel, and advanced visibility systems ensured efficient, accurate installation despite challenging access and positioning requirements.
Liebherr MK 88-4.1E
Shortly before winter each year, an essential preservation operation begins in the gardens of Herrenchiemsee Palace in Bavaria. The site’s monumental fountain sculptures must be protected from frost and snow using specially constructed scaffolding and weatherproof coverings.
To carry out this task, BKL Baukran Logistik GmbH deployed a Liebherr MK 88-4.1E mobile construction crane, overcoming unique logistical challenges to deliver precision lifting in a historic environment.
A Unique Crane Journey Across Lake Chiemsee
Transporting the Liebherr MK 88-4.1E to Herreninsel required careful planning. Before sunrise, the four-axle mobile construction crane was loaded onto a cargo ferry for the crossing across Lake Chiemsee.
After arriving on the island, the crane travelled to the palace grounds of King Ludwig II, where scaffolders from Westermaier GmbH had already prepared pre-assembled components.
Precision Lifting for Delicate Fountain Structures
The selection of the Liebherr MK 88-4.1E was critical to the success of the project. Christian Hofmann, project manager at Westermaier GmbH, explained:
“Compared to a small mobile crane, the MK 88-4.1E offers significantly greater hook height. In combination with trolley travel, the scaffolding components can be lowered precisely over the delicate fountain figures.”
The fountains, reaching heights of up to 13 metres, required highly controlled lifting. The crane’s horizontal jib and trolley system enabled operators to guide loads accurately, even when working with long slings.
Hook Height and Reach Enable Efficient Installation
With its 45-metre foldable jib, the Liebherr MK 88-4.1E can achieve hook heights of over 59 metres, providing sufficient range for the installation.
Positioned outside the fountain basins, the crane required a reach of approximately 25 metres, which it handled with ease. The crane’s ability to operate at steep jib angles allowed for optimal positioning and control.
Fast Repositioning Minimises Downtime
The crane was repositioned once between two fountain installations, with the relocation completed in approximately 30 minutes by an experienced BKL operator.
This quick turnaround ensured continuous workflow, allowing installation work to proceed efficiently without delays.
Enhanced Visibility for Centimetre Precision
Operator control was enhanced by the crane’s elevated cab, positioned around 20 metres high, providing a clear line of sight across the work area.
A hook camera system further supported operations by delivering a vertical view of the load directly to the cab, enabling centimetre-accurate placement essential when working around historic and sensitive structures.
Winter Protection Completed in a Single Day
Once the scaffolding structures were installed, large weatherproof tarpaulins were lifted into place to enclose the fountains.
These coverings protect both the sculptures and technical systems from winter weather. By late afternoon, the work was completed, and the fountains were fully secured for the season.
The Liebherr MK 88-4.1E then folded its boom automatically and returned to the mainland via cargo ferry, completing a highly specialized and efficient operation.
About Liebherr Group
Liebherr Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of construction machinery, mobile cranes, and heavy lifting equipment, with a reputation for engineering innovation, precision, and reliability. Founded in 1949, the company operates globally across multiple business segments, including mobile and crawler cranes, tower cranes, earthmoving equipment, mining, and maritime solutions.
Within its crane portfolio, Liebherr’s MK mobile construction crane series combines the flexibility of a mobile crane with the functionality of a tower crane. Models such as the Liebherr MK 88-4.1E are specifically designed for urban construction sites, infrastructure projects, and complex lifting operations, offering fast setup, high hook heights, and precise load control through advanced trolley systems.
Liebherr continues to lead the industry in hybrid and electric crane technology, supporting more sustainable jobsite operations while maintaining high performance standards across global markets.
Website https://www.liebherr.com
About BKL Baukran Logistik GmbH
BKL Baukran Logistik GmbH is one of Europe’s leading providers of crane rental, heavy lifting logistics, and construction site solutions, specializing in mobile construction cranes, tower cranes, and project-based lifting services. Headquartered in Germany, BKL operates an extensive fleet of modern cranes and delivers tailored lifting concepts for complex and logistically demanding projects.
The company is particularly recognized for its expertise in MK mobile construction cranes, enabling efficient operations in urban environments, restricted-access sites, and heritage locations where precision and minimal setup time are critical. BKL supports a wide range of industries, including construction, infrastructure, industrial assembly, and specialized engineering projects.
With a strong focus on planning, safety, and operational efficiency, BKL provides end-to-end services from transport and setup to on-site crane operation ensuring reliable execution of even the most challenging lifting tasks.
Website: https://www.bkl.de
Asked Questions
What is the Liebherr MK 88-4.1E used for?
The Liebherr MK 88-4.1E is a mobile construction crane used for precise lifting operations, particularly in urban or restricted environments.
Why was the MK 88-4.1E chosen for this project?
It offers high hook height, precise trolley movement, and excellent visibility, making it ideal for working over delicate historic structures.
How tall are the fountains at Herrenchiemsee Palace?
The fountains reach heights of up to 13 metres, requiring careful and controlled lifting.
How was the crane transported to the island?
The crane was transported via a cargo ferry across Lake Chiemsee before being driven to the worksite.
What protects the fountains during winter?
They are covered with scaffolding structures and weatherproof tarpaulins to prevent frost and weather damage.
