Of People, Social Conventions, and Political Events - A Scenic Tour

In 1235, what would later become Jungfernstieg was constructed as a dam through the Alster lowlands to operate a mill. In the Middle Ages, the dam also served fortification purposes. At the end of the dam, a defensive tower called "Isern Hinnerk" was erected in 1488. In the 17th century, the Mühlendamm was transformed into a protected inner-city passage between Hamburg's Old Town and New Town as part of a new fortification wall. During the same century, large amounts of earth were added to the small path, turning it into a promenade lined with linden trees. In 1843, the promenade was officially named Reesendamm, presumably after the mill owner Reese. Because women predominantly strolled here, the Reesendamm became popularly known as Jungfernstieg. In 1931, the street was officially named "Jungfernstieg."

A scenic tour with actress Herma Koehn and actor Wolfgang Hartmann. Texts and moderation by Dr. Rita Bake. This scenic tour was created in cooperation with the Lebendiger Jungfernstieg e.V. association. Costumes were kindly provided by the Ohnsorg Theater Hamburg. Historical image: Hamburg State Archive.