Hamburg's green bunker marks two years as a park-topped landmark drawing millions
The former WWII flak tower in St. Pauli, now topped with a 7,000 sqm park and 4,700 plants, marks two years since its July 5, 2024 opening.
A wartime relic reborn
The bunker on Feldstrasse began as a flak tower, built from April 1942 using forced labour. With a footprint of 75 by 75 metres, it became operational after roughly 300 days. Post-war demolition was considered but never carried out, and the structure was later repurposed and expanded in phases.
The green transformation
The city aimed to improve the urban climate and create socio-ecological projects. The original 38-metre tower was raised by five storeys, and an external mountain path of more than 300 steps now winds up to almost 60 metres. Some 4,700 trees, shrubs, hedges, hanging plants, climbers and ground cover were planted, and a public park of over 7,000 square metres was laid out on the roof. Views take in the Millerntor stadium, the TV tower, the Michel and the Elbphilharmonie.
- Construction of the flak tower begins using forced labour
- Bunker becomes operational after about 300 days
- Post-war demolition considered but not carried out
- Green bunker opens to the public with park and facilities
What visitors find inside
The complex houses a boutique hotel, furnished guest apartments for artists, a rooftop restaurant and bar, and a public day café. Exhibitions, concerts, readings, and guided tours on architecture and history are held in the multifunctional Georg-Elser-Halle, which can accommodate up to 2,200 people.
Visitor numbers and recognition
In its first year the bunker attracted 2.3 million guests, with peak days exceeding 20,000. Entry is free. No newer figures have been released; the developer Matzen Immobilien KG did not provide current numbers on request. The New York Times included the site in its "52 Places to Travel 2025" list.
