Directly at the Rathausmarkt, the Hamburg City Hall stands – the seat of the parliament and senate, right in the center. The richly decorated façade, with its gables, bay windows, and 112-meter-high tower immediately catches the eye from the outside. But there is also history at every turn inside.

What makes the Hamburg City Hall so special?

What stands out immediately: the city hall is not a discreet administrative building. Its architecture is characterized by the style of the Neo-Renaissance, with many small and large details that you can discover upon closer inspection: figures, coats of arms, sculptures, and inscriptions.

The building was erected at the end of the 19th century after the old town hall was destroyed in the great fire of 1842. The people of Hamburg took their time – the new city hall was to be something special. And it truly is: opulent, well thought out, and full of symbols from Hamburg's history.

Today, political meetings are not the only events taking place there – you can also visit the city hall. In the public tours, you get a glimpse into the most impressive rooms: the grand ballroom ensemble, the mayor's office, or the lobby.

If you prefer to explore on your own, you can visit the courtyard – a quiet place in the middle of the city with a view of the Hygieia Fountain.

The location is also special: situated directly at the Rathausmarkt, you can easily reach many other highlights of the city center from here – whether it's the Alster, Jungfernstieg, or Mönckebergstraße.

1. The U-Bahn line U3 runs directly beneath the town hall – without shaking the building.
2. In one of the rooms, there is an oversized model of the city of Hamburg that is regularly updated.
3. The ceremonial hall has its own ventilation system, which was specifically designed during construction to allow candle smoke to rise upwards.
4. The doors in the representative rooms are made of solid oak and are partly over three meters high.
5. On the facade, there are small gargoyles that divert rainwater in a targeted manner – many take the form of animals.
6. In the basement, there is a historic wine cellar that was previously used to host guests.
7. The town hall has a separate bunker access that was established during the Cold War.
8. The famous Senate staircase in the entrance area was made from Swedish marble.
9. In the town hall clock, there are small striking mechanisms that are precisely tuned to the bell tones.
10. Every year, a large youth parliament is held in the ceremonial hall, where young Hamburg residents discuss real proposals.

The Town Hall is interesting for everyone who is interested in city history, politics, or architecture – regardless of age. School classes can get an exciting behind-the-scenes look during guided tours, while history enthusiasts especially appreciate the many details and symbols. It is also worth a stop for visitors to Hamburg – not least because of the architecture and its central location.

The barrier-free design also allows people with mobility restrictions to visit. And for photographers, it's not only the façade that is worth capturing, but also the view from the Town Hall Market towards the Alster – especially in the evening light.

Anyone who walks through the arcade, looks out onto the inner courtyard, or participates in a tour of the rooms will get a good sense of the significance of this house. It is magnificent, but not overloaded. Open, yet respectful. And that is what makes its charm.