St. Michael’s Church is one of the most recognizable structures in Hamburg. It is dedicated to the Archangel Michael and contains a large statue of the deity. The church is the largest in the city with 2,500 seats. Its 433-foot (132-metre) bronze spire is a familiar emblem among locals and travellers. It is a prominent part of the Hamburg skyline and can be seen from most parts of the city. The church was originally built in 1647 and survives today after several renovations.
Capture panoramic photos of the Hamburg skyline from afar, with the prominent church at the centre. It has long been used as a topographical landmark for ships sailing on the River Elbe. Up close, admire the bronze statue of the Archangel Michael grappling with the devil above the church entrance. The deity is the patron saint of knights and soldiers. Gaze up at the bronze spire and clock tower.
Climb the spire for a postcard-pretty view of the harbour and the rest of the city. You can also use the elevator. Admire the grand central nave, which holds three music organs. The largest is more than 50 years old. Enjoy a 15-minute organ performance at noon. Look out for the Michel trumpet player, a tower warden who plays a solo at various intervals throughout the day.
The initial 17th-century structure was destroyed by a lightning strike in 1750. It has now been replicated in nine cities around the world. It was reconstructed in 1786 and renovated a couple of times in the 20th century after fires and bombings.
The church, which is nicknamed "The Michel," is open from morning until late afternoon, though times vary depending on the season.
You can find the church in the centre of Hamburg, just north of the Norderelbe part of the Unterelbe River. It is near to the Hamburg Rathaus (Town Hall) and parks such as the Alter Elbpark and Venusgarten. The Rödingsmarkt subway station is a 10-minute walk to the east of the church.
