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Memorial for the Fallen of Both World Wars

A poignant memorial in Hamburg-Mitte honoring the fallen of both World Wars, featuring Ernst Barlach's moving sculpture and offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

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The Memorial for the Fallen of Both World Wars, also known as the Hamburger Ehrenmal, is a poignant monument located near the Rathaus in Hamburg-Mitte. Designed by architect Klaus Hoffmann, it features a striking relief, 'Trauernde Mutter mit Kind' (Mourning Mother with Child), created by sculptor Ernst Barlach. Originally dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I, it was later rededicated to include those who perished in World War II. The memorial serves as a somber reminder of the human cost of war, inviting reflection on loss and remembrance. Its central location makes it easily accessible, and its minimalist design, in contrast to more ornate war memorials, amplifies its emotional impact. A visit offers a moment of contemplation amidst the bustling city, connecting visitors to Hamburg's history and the shared experience of grief and resilience.

A brief summary to Denkmal für die Gefallenen beider Weltkriege

  • Schleusenbrücke 1, Hamburg, Hamburg-Mitte, 20354, DE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit on Volkstrauertag (National Day of Mourning) in November to witness the official wreath-laying ceremony.
  • Take a moment to reflect on the memorial's message of peace and reconciliation amidst the bustling city center.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Rathaus (City Hall) to learn more about Hamburg's history and government.
  • Explore the Alsterarkaden, located adjacent to the memorial, for picturesque views of the Kleine Alster lake.
  • Look for parking regulations nearby.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Memorial is easily accessible via Hamburg's extensive public transport network. From Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take any S-Bahn (S1, S3) or U-Bahn (U2, U4) line to Jungfernstieg station. From Jungfernstieg, exit towards Rathausmarkt. The memorial is a short walk from the Rathaus, located on Schleusenbrücke. A single ticket within Hamburg (Rings A & B) costs approximately €3.60. Alternatively, a day ticket is €8.40, or €7.10 if starting after 9 AM. Consider using the HVV app for easy ticket purchase and route planning.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Hamburg-Mitte area, the memorial is easily reachable on foot. From the Rathausmarkt, simply walk towards the Kleine Alster (Little Alster) lake. The memorial is located on Schleusenbrücke, a bridge spanning the Alsterfleet, adjacent to the Alsterarkaden. The walk from the Rathausmarkt takes only a few minutes and offers pleasant views of the city center.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Hamburg. A taxi ride from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof to the memorial will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost around €9.50 - €15. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available and may offer competitive pricing. Be sure to specify 'Denkmal für die Gefallenen beider Weltkriege' or 'Schleusenbrücke 1, 20354 Hamburg' as your destination.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of the memorial is limited and can be expensive. Several multi-story car parks are located within walking distance, including those at the German-Japanese Center (An der Stadthausbrücke 1, €3.00/hour), Rödingsmarkt (Rödingsmarkt 14, €2.00/hour), and Hanse-Viertel (Hohe Bleichen 22, €3.50/hour). Consider parking at one of these garages and walking to the memorial. Check for parking regulations.

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Discover more about Denkmal für die Gefallenen beider Weltkriege

The Memorial for the Fallen of Both World Wars, or Hamburger Ehrenmal, stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of war in the heart of Hamburg. Located near the Rathaus (City Hall) on Schleusenbrücke, this monument serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring need for peace. The memorial's history is intertwined with the turbulent events of the 20th century, reflecting Hamburg's own experiences during both World War I and World War II. Originally conceived to honor the fallen soldiers of World War I, the memorial was commissioned by the Hamburg Senate in the 1920s. The task of designing the monument fell to architect Klaus Hoffmann, who envisioned a simple yet impactful structure that would eschew the glorification of war in favor of a more somber and reflective tone. To complement Hoffmann's architectural design, renowned sculptor Ernst Barlach was enlisted to create a relief that would serve as the centerpiece of the memorial. Barlach's contribution, titled 'Trauernde Mutter mit Kind' (Mourning Mother with Child), is a deeply moving depiction of a mother cradling her child, their faces etched with grief and despair. The sculpture captures the profound sorrow and loss experienced by countless families during the war, serving as a universal symbol of mourning and remembrance. The relief was placed on the side of the stele facing the Alsterarkaden. The memorial was inaugurated in 1931, providing a space for the city to grieve and remember the 40,000 sons of Hamburg who lost their lives in World War I. However, the monument's message of peace and reconciliation was soon challenged by the rise of National Socialism in Germany. In 1938, the Nazi regime ordered the removal of Barlach's sculpture, deeming it 'degenerate art' and replacing it with a more militaristic symbol – an ascending eagle. This act of vandalism reflected the Nazi's ideology of glorifying war and suppressing any expression of dissent or mourning. Following the end of World War II, the citizens of Hamburg sought to restore the memorial to its original form. In 1949, the Nazi-era symbol was removed, and Barlach's 'Mourning Mother with Child' was reconstructed based on surviving photographs and casts. Since then, the memorial has stood as a symbol of Hamburg's commitment to peace, reconciliation, and remembrance. Today, the Memorial for the Fallen of Both World Wars continues to serve as a focal point for remembrance ceremonies and public reflection. Each year on Volkstrauertag (National Day of Mourning), wreaths are laid at the base of the monument by representatives of the Hamburg Senate and Bürgerschaft (Parliament) to honor the victims of war and violence. The memorial also serves as a gathering place for individuals and groups seeking to express their commitment to peace and social justice. The memorial's design is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic, which stands in stark contrast to the more elaborate and triumphalist war memorials of the past. The 21-meter-high stele is made of concrete, its simple form intended to convey a sense of solemnity and contemplation. The focus is drawn to Barlach's sculpture, which serves as the emotional heart of the memorial. The inscription on the back of the monument, “Vierzigtausend Söhne der Stadt ließen ihr Leben für Euch — 1914–1918” (Forty Thousand Sons of the City Gave Their Lives for You), underscores the immense human cost of war and the need to remember those who sacrificed their lives. The location of the memorial, near the Rathaus and overlooking the Kleine Alster (Little Alster) lake, further enhances its significance. The Rathaus, with its imposing architecture and historical importance, represents the civic heart of Hamburg, while the Kleine Alster provides a tranquil backdrop for reflection and remembrance. The memorial's accessibility and central location make it a natural gathering place for both residents and visitors. Visiting the Memorial for the Fallen of Both World Wars offers a unique opportunity to connect with Hamburg's history and to reflect on the universal themes of war, loss, and remembrance. The monument's simple yet powerful design, combined with Barlach's moving sculpture, creates a space for contemplation and mourning. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a moment of peace and reflection, the memorial is well worth a visit. It serves as a reminder of the importance of learning from the past and working towards a more peaceful future. While at the memorial, take a moment to consider the stories of the individuals who lost their lives in the two World Wars. Imagine the impact of these conflicts on the families and communities of Hamburg. Reflect on the lessons of history and the importance of promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation in the world today. The Memorial for the Fallen of Both World Wars is more than just a monument; it is a living testament to the enduring human spirit and the ongoing quest for a better world.

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