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Hyper-modern building of the publishers.
Michel
The youngest and most famous of the five is also the only baroque church. This building is not the original St. Michaelis - that one (built 1647-1669) was destroyed by a lightning strike in 1750. It was not until 1786 that the present church was erected on the site. From the tower (450 steps, or take the elevator) you'll have a great view over the city. Entry to the church is free, but the tower and the crypt cost extra (around €5/person).
St. Jacobi has been a parish since the 12th century, when it was not even within Hamburg's then city walls. The present-day church is a reconstruction of the late medieval one from the 15th century, which was destroyed during the Second World War. The reconstruction afforded St. Jacobi with a visibly modern roof and steeple.
St. Petri was a cathedral as early as the 12th century or possibly even earlier. As with other Hauptkirchen, the present version is one of many successive, and was only completed in 1878 after the great fire in 1842 consumed its predecessor. In turn, however, St. Petri survived the Second World War relatively intact. Of note are the large ornate door handles in the shape of lion heads, which have survived both the fire and the war, and the bells, several of which date back to the 16th century. The tower can be climbed for a fee and offers a great view of Hamburg, but the climb is long and not recommended for people suffering from high anxiety.
All five main churches of Hamburg were damaged in World War II. But in contrast to the other four, St. Nikolai has not been re-erected making it a memorial against war. It was designed by English architect George Gilbert Scott. The steeple is still standing and visitors can take an elevator to the top for a view of the city.
Situated on an island, it traditionally served as the church of the seamen. The base of its spire, dating from the 13th century, is the second oldest building preserved in the city. The church is also famous for its centuries-old organ, played by Bach when he was visiting the city. The instrument was actually destroyed to a large extent by the wartime bombings, but has been meticulously rebuilt and is playable again.
Dating from the beginning of the 20th century as most buildings around, but looking much older.