Hamburg

Hamburg, officially the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, is a global hub for shipping, transportation, and media. Founded in the 9th century, the city has a rich maritime history and serves as Germany's "Gateway to the World." Hamburg's harbor, one of the largest in Europe, is central to its identity and economy. The city features a unique mix of historic landmarks, modern architecture, and abundant green spaces, with water bodies covering about 8% of its total area. Cultural highlights include the impressive Elbphilharmonie concert hall, the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the lively St. Pauli neighborhood with its famous Reeperbahn entertainment district.