Hamburg Travel Guide - History

Traditionally known as the ‘Free and Hanseatic City’ of Hamburg, it has never succumbed to foreign rule, with the notable exception of occupation by Napoleon’s troops. Commerce has always been the city’s driving force and today there are more millionaires here than anywhere else in Germany.

It was during the 12th century that Hamburg came to prominence as one of Europe’s most important ports. In 1189, the city was granted free trade status, exempt from having to pay customs. Commerce rapidly expanded and a new city was built around the port. Hamburg’s history has been turbulent however, with the city suffering devastation over the centuries.

More than 8,000 of the city’s Jewish residents were murdered in concentration camps alone. Throughout the centuries, Hamburg has demonstrated a great deal of resilience, re-building and re-inventing itself time after time.

The city’s occupation by Napoleon's troops in the years 1806 to 1814 led to democratic reforms, but at the same time caused significant economic and social hardship for Hamburg’s citizens.