In the new HafenCity district in central Hamburg, Hamburg's Speicherstadt warehouse district is a highlight of Hamburg architecture. The entire imposing complex, built between 1883 and 1927, is a listed building and, together with the Kontorhaus district including the Chilehaus, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The striking brick buildings as a huge ensemble of warehouses between Oberhafen and Baumwall are among the most architecturally charming and most frequently photographed sights of Hamburg.
The history of the Speicherstadt
South of the Old Town, the Speicherstadt was built in three sections between 1883 and 1927 on the former Elbe islands of Kehrwieder and Wandrahm as part of Hamburg's free port. The construction work was divided into three sections, the first of which was completed in 1888. The ceremonial inauguration by Emperor Wilhelm II also took place in this year. The remaining construction work was completed by the beginning of World War I. During World War II about half of the Speicherstadt was destroyed, the reconstruction true to the original lasted until 1967.
Discover the Speicherstadt
Whether on a harbour tour or a city tour - the Speicherstadt is one of the highlights of Hamburg. The historic warehouses were built on pine piles, and the entire quarter is criss-crossed by the so-called Fleeten. These are channels that are flooded depending on the tide and can then also be navigated by small launches.
Visit the German Customs Museum, which is located right next to the Kornhaus Bridge. Also worth seeing is the Spice Museum, which offers cooking demonstrations and book readings in addition to around 900 exhibits. Visitors to the Speicherstadt Museum will learn interesting facts about the history of the Speicherstadt.
A highlight for railway fans of all ages is Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway exhibition. The Fleetschlösschen, which houses a café, invites visitors to take a break in the historic ambience. The moated castle houses a tea shop with adjoining gastronomy.
