Visit HafenCity in Hamburg, Germany
2010-07-21
Those engaging on Europe travel get to see the historical parts of some of the world's most famous cities. But there are also many spots that are pushing forward into the 21st century. One such location is HafenCity in Hamburg, Germany, currently being constructed along the Elbe river.
Although HafenCity, a €9 billion euro project, won't be complete for another 10 to 15 years, much of this new district is already buzzing, according to the New York Times. The massive undertaking by the city will grow the center of Hamburg by 40 percent, and has already attracted big architecture projects by major companies, along with a number of cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers.
The centerpiece of the project is the yet-to-be-finished Elbphilharmonie, which has been architecturally engineered to resemble a giant glass wave. The concept is truly eye-catching and stunning, and the building will eventually hold a 5-star hotel, luxury apartments, and the NDR Symphony Orchestra when it is completed in 2013.
While big business has certainly left its mark on the area, a large part of it is dedicated to providing public spaces. The Magellan Terraces are already popular with residents, and waterfront cafes are frequently crowded.
The area used to be a sailor's port, but the revitalized HafenCity project is quickly making Hamburg one of the best cities in Europe.
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