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The Historic Elbe Tunnel Tube in Hamburg – A Technical Monument Beneath the River
In the heart of Hamburg, right at the Landungsbrücken, lies a fascinating piece of engineering history: the tube of the Old Elbe Tunnel. For over 100 years, it has connected the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken with the southern Elbe side in Steinwerder – deep beneath the riverbed of the Elbe.
Opening
Opened in 1911, the Elbe Tunnel tube was a technical masterpiece of its time. It consists of two parallel tubes, each about 426 meters long and located roughly 24 meters below the water surface. Originally, the tunnel was built to provide shipyard workers with a quicker route to work.
Today, the Elbe Tunnel tube is not only a practical route for pedestrians and cyclists but also a popular destination. Visitors appreciate its nostalgic atmosphere, impressive tiled walls, and the industrial charm of a bygone era.
Elevator Shafts
Especially striking are the old, still-operational elevator shafts once used to lower people and even vehicles into the depths. The tunnel is now a protected historical monument and is one of Hamburg’s most beloved attractions – particularly among fans of architecture and engineering.
A walk through the Elbe Tunnel tube is free of charge and offers a unique perspective on the city. Anyone visiting Hamburg shouldn’t miss this historic tunnel – a true highlight beneath the Elbe!