Leaving a seaside resort or an important historical center, dreaming of returning there, a tourist throws a coin into the sea or into a local fountain. But in this German city, such a number will not work. Of course, while walking around Hamburg, you can leave money in every fountain or pond. But, according to legend, only the tourist will return to the city, who will throw this very coin on top of a pile sticking out of the water in the area of one of the port warehouses. By the way, the whole city was built on such piles, which is why it has learned the beautiful nickname “German Venice”.
Walking through the old Hamburg
The best view of the sights of Hamburg is from the top of the Trost-Brücke bridge, which runs over the Alsterfleet canal. The bridge has a long history and survived one of the worst fires in Hamburg, in 1842. And the canal is a kind of border between the Old and New Towns.
Hamburg's main attractions in the heart of the city include:
- local Stock Exchange, considered the oldest in Germany;
- anti-war memorial - the ruins of the church of St. Nicholas;
- The Town Hall is the main symbol of independence.
Historians note that Hamburg was badly damaged during the last world war. Many buildings were destroyed. There is also a preserved talisman-symbol - the tower, which bears the name "Michel". It is part of the architectural complex of the church, consecrated in honor of St. Michael (hence the name).
Focus on urban architecture
The beginning of the construction of the building of the Hamburg City Hall dates back to 1887. Outwardly, this is a beautiful building in the neo-Renaissance style. Excursions to individual halls of this symbol of the independence of the city are possible, as well as self-examination.
A visit to the Church of St. Jacob will give the opportunity to see one of the largest organs in Europe, installed in the temple in 1693. The altars located in the main choirs and side naves also attract the attention of tourists; they date back to 1500 - the oldest, as well as 1508, 1518.
One of the oldest churches in the city is the Church of St. Peter, the beginning of its construction dates back to the 11th century (in the 14th century it was rebuilt). This iconic building houses the oldest works of art by Hamburg craftsmen - these are door handles made of bronze in the shape of a lion's head, dating back to 1342. Ancient frescoes have been preserved in the same church.
