Museum for Hamburg History
Holstenwall 24, Hamburg, DEU
Once known as the “gateway to the world,” the 9th-century fort of Hammaburg would grow into one of Europe’s foremost cities. Visitors can learn all about this meteoric rise at the Museum for Hamburg History (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte), which contains the largest permanent city exhibition in Germany. You’ll also get to step inside an architectural masterpiece—this beautiful spot also doubles as a photo-worthy backdrop and event venue.
Opened in 1922, the Museum of Hamburg History is home to an ever-growing collection detailing over 1,200 years of city history. The exhibitions focus on subjects including Hamburg’s baroque fortifications (the museum is built right on them), 14th- and 15th-century pirates, the story of the Hanseatic League, the city’s Jewish history, and everything from city emigration to shipping to fashion.
Beyond the permanent showcases, you’ll also run across festivals, events, and the city’s largest model railway—a delight for train enthusiasts of any age. Lastly, be sure to wander into the glass-domed courtyard to appreciate the beauty of the setting.
The museum is being renovated through 2027.
When the museum is open, its library is open to the public.
Holders of the Hamburg CARD received a discount at city museums.
Leave the rental car at home for this one. Take the U-Bahn Line U3 to the Baumwall station—the museum is a short walk from there. As another option, bus 112 stops right at the museum.
The museum is currently closed.
Take a look around—the museum was built with architectural fragments of Hamburg townhouses, statues of German emperors from Hamburg’s old town hall, and elements from buildings destroyed in the Great Fire of 1842. In addition, it’s worth exploring the museum’s sister sites, like Millerntorwache (almost next door), which now serves as the Museum for Hamburg Oral History and invites residents to tell the city’s stories.
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