ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Galeb: A Symbol of Peace and Friendship Under Three Names

The Galeb, also known as Brod Mira Galeb or Ramb III Kiebitz, is a museum ship permanently moored at Molo Longo in Rijeka, Croatia. Originally built in 1938 in Genova as the banana boat Ramb III, destined for service in the banana trade between Africa and Italy, the vessel has undergone significant transformations throughout its history.

During World War II, Galeb was converted into an auxiliary cruiser, becoming part of the Royal Navy and employed in escort duties in the Mediterranean. However, after being hit by an English submarine in the port of Benghazi, it managed to return to Italy and underwent restoration works at the Cantiere San Marco in Trieste before being abandoned following the armistice.

Captured by German forces, Galeb was renamed Kiebitz and used as a posemine. On November 5, while docked in Rijeka's port, it was sunk during an allied bombing of the city, suffering significant damage that led to its eventual sinking to a depth of about 20 meters.

After being recovered by Yugoslav forces at the end of World War II, Galeb underwent further transformations. In 1952, Tito avioratit (launched) it for the first time in Podgora, where he conducted an inspection of YWN ships from the bridge of the vessel. Over the next several years, Galeb served as a training ship under Yugoslav Navy command.

Tito's association with Galeb dates back to 1948 and lasted until his death in 1980. During this period, the vessel was used for various purposes, including state visits, peace missions, and diplomatic functions. Tito often entertained world leaders on board, including Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who played him in the 1973 war epic The Battle of Sutjeska.

Galeb's significance extends beyond its association with Tito; it also symbolized Yugoslavia as a nation and represented various nations within the non-aligned movement. With a length of 117 meters and a displacement of 5,754 tons, Galeb was an impressive vessel that played a pivotal role in Yugoslav history.

In recent years, Galeb has been repurposed for public exhibitions, conferences, and other events. In 2008, it was sold to the city of Rijeka for $150,000, marking