Architecture - Bunker at Hamburg's Heiligengeistfeld opens its doors to everyone
A beautiful view over Hamburg, thousands of plants and varied gastronomy offers: The redesigned St. Pauli High bunker opens to all visitors on Friday (09.00 hours). "A dark chapter of German history will become a friendly, bright, lively place," said private investor, builder Thomas Matzen at the official opening ceremony on a Wednesday evening.
The originally 38-meter-high Flak bunker, built by forced laborers in 1942, was raised by five additional floors to 58 meters and lavishly planted. During the 2019 construction work, there were delays. Approximately 60 million Euros are said to have been spent on the elevation to 58 meters and the landscaping of the colossus next to the Millerntor Stadium, according to the end of 2023.
The rooftop garden with 4700 plants is accessible from outside through airy heights along the so-called Peak Path, which is also lined with many plants, shrubs, and trees. The rooftop and facade landscaping of the wartime building is considered a natural climate control system.
For safety reasons, there will be a limit to the number of visitors, as the responsible parties announced. "The maximum number at the rooftop garden is 900 at the same time." This will be controlled. Different summer and winter opening hours will apply. In the warm months, the rooftop garden can be explored from 09.00 to 21.00 hours.
In the new section, the Hotel Reverb by Hard Rock has prepared 134 rooms for its guests. Visitors to the bunker can enjoy drinks, snacks, and music in the bar "Karo & Paul" on several levels. The café "Constant Grind" and the restaurant "La Salsa" with a show kitchen will also welcome guests. In the "Rock Shop" in one of the former Flak turrets, not only numerous souvenirs can be bought, but also readings and small concerts are planned. The concept also includes a memorial and information area that reminds of the history of the building.
The newly transformed St. Pauli High bunker, steeped in miscellaneous history, now serves as a hub for nature enthusiasts and food lovers. Inspired by the city's rich architecture, the construction of the roof garden was a testament to contemporary design, integrating over 4700 plants. The construed Pearl Path allows visitors to ascend the rooftop garden, providing panoramic views of Hamburg's skyline and Heiligengeist Field.
With St. Pauli and its nearby Millerntor Stadium serving as landmarks, the redesigned bunker has become a significant tourist destination, attracting people from across Germany and beyond. The immersive gastronomy experience, featuring various eateries like Karo & Paul, La Salsa, and Constant Grind, further enhances the bunker's appeal.
In addition to enjoying local dishes, tourists can purchase souvenirs, attend readings, or enjoy small concerts in the on-site Rock Shop. Architecture and history merge seamlessly within this unique space, creating a captivating blend of past and present. The redesigned St. Pauli High bunker stands as a symbol of Hamburg's ever-evolving landscape and resilient spirit.
