Hamburg City Hall – Rathaus
The Hamburg City Hall is a beautiful example of North German Neo-Renaissance.
Insider Tips
* Be sure to visit the main hall of the town hall; the entrance is free. Admire the wonderful large wrought-iron gate while you're there.
* At the square in front of the town hall, the Hop-On Hop-Off buses depart for the sightseeing tour.
Hamburg City Hall
The Splendor of the Hamburg Rathaus: A Historical and Architectural Masterpiece Reflecting the Spirit of the Hanseatic City
The magnificent Hamburg Rathaus, rich in ornate decorations and opulent furnishings, stands as the political heart of the Hanseatic city, proudly reflecting the spirit of Hamburg. This architectural masterpiece, constructed in the style of North German Renaissance, is regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in Hamburg. Its facade is a harmonious blend of Italian and North German Renaissance elements, creating a visually stunning ensemble.
The journey from its initial planning to its grand inauguration spanned an impressive 55 years. On October 26, 1897, the Rathaus was inaugurated with a grand public celebration, marking a significant moment in the city's history.
Tourists visiting the Rathaus are captivated by various aspects of this iconic building. They eagerly capture photographs of its awe-inspiring facade, step into the grand and imposing hall, and leisurely stroll through the picturesque inner courtyard.
The Rathaus's renowned facade features a colossal phoenix at its center, positioned between the prominent town clock and Hamburg's coat of arms. This phoenix symbolizes the rebirth of the city after the devastating fire of 1842. On the Rathausmarkt side of the building, you'll find twenty statues of kings and emperors of the old German Empire, from Charlemagne to Francis II, each weighing 600 kilograms in bronze. Above these monarchs, the Middle Tower showcases representations of civic virtues: valor, piety, harmony, and prudence. The placement of these civic virtues above the monarchs signifies Hamburg's historical independence from the crown, as Hamburg was a Hanseatic city, not an imperial one.
Inside the Rathaus, you'll discover impressive interiors that add to its grandeur. The entrance area, with its imposing columns, leaves a lasting impression and is open to both citizens and visitors. The grand hall often hosts exhibitions, adding to the cultural significance of the Rathaus. Two exceptionally ornate staircases further enhance the interior's splendor. In the upper floors, you'll find halls adorned with gold, carvings, metalwork, and colossal historical paintings.
The Great Hall, measuring nearly 50 meters in length and featuring massive wall murals, along with the Kaiser Hall adorned with portraits of former mayors, are just two examples among the Rathaus's 647 rooms. Regular guided tours of the Rathaus are available, offered in both German and English at fixed intervals, with details available on the official website. The cost for adults is 5 euros, while children can enjoy the tour for free.
The Rathaus's enchanting inner courtyard, characterized by its lavishly decorated facades reflecting Italian and North German Renaissance styles, boasts the striking Hygieia Fountain at its center. Architecturally, it is considered one of the most challenging and successful spaces in the city. The courtyard, elevated approximately twelve meters above the ground, is lined with six niche figures representing bishops and counts who have played significant roles in Hamburg's history.
The Rathaus stands not just as a political center but as a testament to the city's enduring spirit. Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of this architectural gem, allowing both locals and tourists to appreciate the intricate details and captivating tales that make the Rathaus an integral part of Hamburg's identity. With its ornate interiors, historical significance, and enchanting courtyard, the Hamburg Rathaus invites all to immerse themselves in the grand legacy of this iconic landmark.
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Hamburg Sightseeing
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Hamburg City Cruises
Hamburg Museums
Hamburg Musicals, Opera, Ballet
Hamburg Hafencity
FAQ:
How much is the entrance fee to visit Hamburg Rathaus?
Entrance to the Hamburg Rathaus is free, allowing visitors to explore its grandeur without any admission cost.
What is the significance of the phoenix on the Rathaus facade?
The colossal phoenix at the center of the Rathaus facade symbolizes the city's rebirth after the devastating fire of 1842, signifying resilience and renewal.
Are guided tours available, and what is the cost?
Yes, guided tours of the Rathaus are available in both German and English at fixed intervals. The cost for adults is 5 euros, and children can enjoy the tour for free.
What are the highlights of the Rathaus interior?
The Rathaus interior features impressive elements, including a grand hall hosting exhibitions, ornate staircases, gold-adorned halls with historical paintings, and notable rooms like the Great Hall and Kaiser Hall.
Can visitors explore the Rathaus inner courtyard?
Absolutely! The enchanting inner courtyard, characterized by lavish decorations reflecting Italian and North German Renaissance styles, is open for visitors. It showcases the striking Hygieia Fountain and represents a successful architectural space in the city.
How long did it take to construct the Hamburg Rathaus?
The journey from the initial planning to the grand inauguration of the Rathaus spanned an impressive 55 years. The Rathaus was inaugurated on October 26, 1897, with a grand public celebration marking a significant moment in Hamburg's history.
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