In the heart of Hamburg's old town, on the Große Reichenstraße, stands the Afrikahaus – an impressive office building that remains an important testament to Hanseatic trade history.

History and Architecture

The Afrikahaus was built in 1899/1900 on behalf of the merchant Adolph Woermann, whose family operated influential shipping companies and trading businesses in the 19th century. Particularly, trade with Africa – coffee, cocoa, spices, and other colonial goods – shaped the family's wealth.

The building was designed by the renowned Hamburg architect Martin Haller, who also contributed to the city hall. Notably, the richly decorated façade in the neo-Gothic style features African motifs and sculptures that reference colonial ties. Among other elements, there are masks, ornaments, and lion heads, symbolizing the trading relations with Africa.

Usage Then and Now

The Afrikahaus originally served as the headquarters of the Woermann Line, one of the largest shipping companies of its time, which operated regular services between Hamburg and the West African ports. The office building was thus a symbol of Hamburg’s role in global maritime trade and at the same time an expression of colonial expansion.

Today, the Afrikahaus houses modern offices, law firms, and service companies, yet its historic facade and magnificent entrance hall continue to attract visitors.

Significance

The building is an important part of the warehouse architectural style of Hamburg and visibly carries the colonial past of the city into the present. It exemplifies how closely intertwined economic success and colonial history were - an aspect that is critically reflected upon today.

Location & Surroundings

The Afrikahaus is centrally located on Große Reichenstraße, not far from the town hall and the Speicherstadt. Thus, a visit to the building can easily be combined with a walk through Hamburg's historic old town.