Thalia Theater

Dating from the beginning of the 20th century as most buildings around, but looking much older.

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.

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.

Under the building you can visit the remains of the bishops tower, from the 11th century. On the other side of the road, you can see excavations in progress, seeking the remains of the small fortress Hammaburg, which was erected in the 9th century giving Hamburg its name.

Hamburg's impressive city hall was built in 1897 out of sandstone in neo-Renaissance style, including a 112-m tower. The square in front of the city hall is the Rathausmarkt, hosting many events especially in summer. Inside there are several magnificent halls used for representative purposes and sittings of government and parliament. These can be visited in guided tours (M-Th 10:00-15:15, F-Su 10:00-13:15, half-hourly in German, hourly in English and French.