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Germany
Travel Guide
Hamburg:
the major underdog of Europe by Matthew Pressman
If
asked to think of associations with the city of Hamburg, many people
would perhaps struggle to think of much beyond the obvious food product
it lent its name to. The hamburger is just one of several snacks that
have derived its name from the German city in which it originated; there
is also the Frankfurter (hotdog) and the Berliner (jam doughnut). But
Hamburg is actually one of the most splendid cities in Europe, and
certainly not one to be dismissed so quickly.
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Taking its name from the first
permanent building that was erected on the site, a castle built by
Emperor Charlemagne in 808AD, Hamburg has now grown to be the largest
non-capital city in the EU and is Germany's principal port. The great
fire of 1842 wiped out much of the old architecture, and coupled with
the mass destruction Hamburg suffered in World War 2, this paved the
way for it to become a shining example of urban modernity.
Miles
of tree-lined canals snake their way through the city, and Hamburg
actually has more bridges within its boundaries than any other town or
city on earth, more than Amsterdam and Venice combined, and the skyline
is etched with the spires of five principal churches.
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Culturally,
Hamburg is just as rich as the landscape. There are many museums and
galleries to choose from, one of the highlights being the Hamburg
Kunsthalle, which consists of two buildings linked by an underground
passage. The gallery displays many pieces, from medieval portraiture to
20th century classics by both German and international artists alike.
It's
also worth paying a visit to Dike Street, one of the last remaining
streets from the middle ages. The historical buildings within this
pedestrianised street now house shops and restaurants. And there is also
Goose Market Square, a triangular square with street cafes that is the
perfect spot to wile away some time either people-watching or planning
the next move in this activity-rich city.
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As is the case with most of
the large German cities, a joint fare-collection venture exists between
the various transport companies, meaning a ticket bought for one
transport service, can also be used on another, making travel around
Hamburg far more straight-forward than it otherwise could be.
And
for international visitors, there are regular flights to Hamburg, from
many European cities, including London. Hamburg also has the oldest
airport in Germany, which is yet another factor which helps to set it
apart from other German cities.
Although
Hamburg may not instantly spring to mind as being a major contender
among European cities, it could be described as being one of the major
underdogs and unsung heroes of Europe.
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With its
impressive landscape, waterways, museums and curiously little-known
facts, this all makes it all the more intriguing a place, and would
suggest that Hamburg is more than just food for thought!
Disclaimer:
The
information contained within this article is the opinion of the author
and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It
should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links
are included for information purposes only.
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About
the Author - Matthew Pressman is a freelance writer and frequent flyer. When not travelling, he enjoys golf
and fishing.
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