ARCHITECTURE, HAMBURG, HAMBURG NEWS, Selection

Elbe Tunnel

Text

Redaktion

Photograph

Elbtunnel

The Old Elbe Tunnel in St. Pauli, also known as the St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel, is often referred to as the Old Elbe Tunnel by the residents of Hamburg to distinguish it from the New Elbe Tunnel, which opened in 1975. The Old Elbe Tunnel was opened in 1911 and serves as a connection between the Landungsbrücken and the harbour area in Steinwerder. Both cyclists and pedestrians can pass through the tunnel free of charge around the clock.

Experience, Germany, Hamburg, Sight

The Old Elbe Tunnel was built as the first river tunnel on the European continent. It became necessary because the growing port of Hamburg was increasingly expanding to the southern side of the Elbe and therefore required improved transport links. The tunnel is modelled on the Clyde Tunnel in Glasgow after considerations for a suspension railway, a trajectory and a high bridge were discarded. During the Second World War, the shaft building of the Elbe Tunnel on the southern side of the Elbe suffered heavy bomb damage. Nevertheless, many of the majolica tiles, depicting aquatic animals and popular motifs, have been preserved.

In 2003, the Old Elbe Tunnel was granted the status of a listed building. On the occasion of his 100th birthday. On the occasion of its 100th birthday, it was even awarded the title of “Historic Landmark of Civil Engineering in Germany”. For a special walk, it is a good idea to cross the tunnel and then enjoy the breathtaking view of the harbour edge, the Michel and the “Rickmer Rickmers” from the southern bank of the Elbe.