Hamburg Places: Jungfernstieg

The Jungfernstieg at the Alster lake "Binnenalster" is a famous area of Hamburg for meeting people in one of the numerous cafes or restaurants, for shopping and relaxation.

Its name Jungfernstieg - meaning "maid path" - is due to the fact that people went there for their sunday afternoon walks with their unmarried daughters to find a husband for their daughters.

First built in 1799, the present Alster pavilion was set up in 1953.

In 2004, the Jungfernstieg was redesigned and received its present layout.

The "Binnenalster" and the "Aussenalster" are Alster lakes in the heart of Hamburg. In the 12th century, the river Alster was impounded in order to operate a mill. Soon afterwards, a lake was created for the same purpose but the water was also used as drinking water.

When the "Wallanlagen" were built at the beginning of the 17th century, the two Alster lakes were born, the "Binnenalster" and the "Aussenalster". They are separated by a bridge.

Although they are not very deep, they are also great for sailing and other leisure activities.