Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany, one of the three city-states (Berlin, Hamburg, and Bremen), and the largest German port. How far back do the first mentions of this German city go, and why has the Port of Hamburg earned the nickname ‘the German Gateway to the World’?
Hamburg is located in northern Germany on the lower course of the Elbe River. Although it is approximately 100 kilometers away from the North Sea, the Elbe River is deep enough in the city center to accommodate several thousand sea vessels annually. The Port of Hamburg, located about 110 kilometers from the mouth of the Elbe into the North Sea, has thus earned the nickname ‘the German Gateway to the World.’ The name also reflects its important role as a global trade and logistics maritime hub. Both large cargo ships and ocean liners dock here. Part of this port is even managed by the Czech Republic.
Hanseatic City of Hamburg
Hamburg is one of nine German cities that bear the designation ‘Hanseatic.’ This means that it was part of the so-called Hanseatic League, a union of trading cities in Northern Europe specializing in long-distance trade. Hamburg was a member of the Hanseatic League as early as the Middle Ages.
This trading alliance brought considerable wealth to the cities, reflected in their architectural grandeur—one typical feature of these cities was buildings made of red bricks.
The First Mentions of Hamburg
The first mentions of Hamburg date back to the 4th century BC, but the city was officially founded in the 9th century. In 834, Emperor Charlemagne established an archbishopric here, and the city likely got its name from the Hammaburg fortress, which the emperor had built in 808.
Attacks on Hamburg
Hamburg has been occupied several times throughout history. In 845, it was ravaged by the Vikings, in 1030 the Polish King Mieszko II burned it down, and between 1201 and 1214, it was occupied by the Danish King Valdemar II. Hamburg also faced devastating natural disasters—fires struck the city, and more than half of its population was wiped out by the plague. However, thanks to its strong fortifications, the city emerged unscathed from the Thirty Years’ War.
Free Imperial City
In the 12th century, Emperor Frederick Barbarossa granted Hamburg a tax exemption and the right to trade on the lower course of the Elbe River up to the sea. This move led to Hamburg becoming a Free Imperial City, which boosted trade and brought international fame, particularly due to the export of beer.
Hamburg’s Independence
In 1815, the Congress of Vienna confirmed Hamburg’s independence, recognizing it as a free city-state and incorporating it into the German Confederation. After World War II, during which bombings heavily damaged the city, Hamburg became part of the newly formed Federal Republic of Germany in 1949.
Hamburg Today
For hundreds of years, Hamburg has been a significant center of culture and commerce, and today it attracts tourists with its unique atmosphere, distinctive architecture, extensive parks, and exceptional museums. Wondering what to do in Hamburg, Germany? If you decide to visit the city, take a boat tour around one of the largest and busiest ports in Europe, stroll through the Old Town with its historic 17th-century houses, and be sure to explore more of the modern architecture in the HafenCity district.
