The Kersten-Miles Bridge spans Helgoländer Allee and connects the districts of Neustadt and St. Pauli. It was built between 1895 and 1897 as an arch bridge made of sandstone and brick. Above the busy car traffic and the bike and footpaths, it invites you to take a short break and let your gaze wander over the surroundings.

What makes the Kersten-Miles Bridge so special?

It was constructed between 1895 and 1897 as an arch bridge made of sandstone and brick – impressive due to its approximately 90 meters in length and 20 meters in width. It is named after the Mayor of Hamburg, Kersten Miles (circa 1340–1420), whose sculpture can be seen on one of the four pedestals. The bridge is further complemented by statues of three other historical figures – and representations of the coats of arms of 32 Hanseatic cities. It has always shaped the image of Seewartenstraße and is listed as a historic monument.

Another fascinating aspect is the mosaic remnants discovered beneath the bridge in 2014. These small remains give the place a touch of past design and show that even in everyday buildings there are traces of craftsmanship. For a long time, homeless individuals found shelter here. This led to a nationwide debate about defensive architecture in 2011: boulders and fences were set up – but then dismantled after protests emerged. Thus, the bridge demonstrates how public space is utilized, politically charged, and then re-released.

Ultimately, it is located in close proximity to the Old Elbpark and the Bismarck Monument, nestled among walking paths, green spaces, and the charm of the harbor district. Whether for walkers, history buffs, or photographers – the bridge is a place where construction technology, civic history, and urban life intersect.

Insider Tip: Sit on the low parapet at sunset and enjoy the ensemble of the Hotel Hafen, Landungsbrücken, and cranes in the distance – a harbor view directly from the bridge.

1. The bridge was built entirely without steel or modern reinforcement materials – it consists solely of natural stone.
2. Although the bridge is over 120 years old, it has never been fundamentally remodeled or replaced by new constructions to this day.
3. The bridge is clearly visible in aerial photographs because its curved shape is not straight but gently adapts to the terrain.
4. The four figures at the corners of the bridge were all carved from the same sandstone as the body of the bridge itself – this ensures a uniform appearance despite different artistic details.
5. The road under the bridge was just a simple connection between parks at the time of construction – the current four-lane Helgoländer Allee was only expanded decades later.
6. The bridge was classified as particularly worthy of preservation in 1928 – long before monument protection was systematically practiced in Germany.
7. In the 1980s, there were considerations to enhance the bridge with lighting and information panels for tourism – however, these plans were never implemented.
8. The bases of the four sculptures are hollow inside, as they were originally intended to serve as small chambers for time capsules – however, they were never used for that purpose.
9. In the early 20th century, the Kersten-Miles Bridge was a popular meeting place for walks among the urban upper class, as it directly connected to the then promenade along the fortifications.
10. During the football World Cup in 2006, the bridge was used as a photographic motif by international photographers for reports about Hamburg – among other things, because of its proximity to the fan festival at the Landungsbrücken.

The bridge is ideal for **history enthusiasts** who appreciate old structures with urban symbolism – and for photographers seeking perspectives on modern cityscapes. Strollers and joggers appreciate the direct connection between Neustadt, St. Pauli, and the Elbpark. **Families** can find green spaces and playgrounds in the surrounding area. **Cyclists** also like to use the bridge on tours through the harbor and park areas.

Area	Entry Price	Note
Use of the Bridge	Free	Open for walking at any time
Guided Tours (if offered)	Free to affordable	Partially available as part of city tours

Period	Opening Hours
Year-round	Open 24 hours

Note: Since it is a public bridge, it is always accessible. However, it is not specifically illuminated at night, so a visit at that time is only worthwhile for locals or experienced city walkers.

The Kersten-Miles Bridge is one of the rarely noticed but most impressive bridge structures in Hamburg. It connects not only two districts but also several eras: from its medieval namesake to the empire of the 19th century and the social conflicts of the present.