A Point of Orientation
Known fondly as the Tele-Michel (referring to Hamburg鈥檚 famous landmark, St. Michael鈥檚 Church), the TV tower can be seen from wide and far. Towering 279.2 metres (916 ft.) above the St. Pauli district, the landmark is the single highest building in Hamburg, as well as the sixth tallest TV tower in all of Germany.
Whether you鈥檙e looking for the Planten un Blomen park (located directly opposite the tower), the Messehallen convention centre, the Karolinenviertel or Schanzenviertel neighbourhoods, or the Heiligengeistfeld event area, the TV tower always serves a clear point of orientation to help you find your way. 聽
Its Namesake
The Hamburg-based physicist Heinrich Hertz, whose work proved the existence of electromagnetic waves in the 19th century, is the TV tower鈥檚 namesake. In the city, both the tower and a comprehensive school are named after Hamburg鈥檚 influential son. The tower still broadcasts radio and TV programmes today.
History
The steel and concrete tower was built between 1966 and 1968 according to blueprints by architects Fritz Trautwein and Rafael Behn. During the planning stages, the idea of adding a restaurant and a viewing platform to the tower gained vocal support. The platforms were officially opened on 1 May 1968.
Both levels were forced to close on 1 January 2001 due to high asbestos levels requiring extensive renovations. For years, no investor could be found, so the platforms remained closed, lingering under monument protection. Currently, there are plans for Hamburg to be enriched by this stunning attraction again, but the exact opening date is yet to be announced.
Address
Heinrich-Hertz-Turm
Lagerstra脽e 2
20357 Hamburg
Getting There
U2 trains to Messehallen
S2, S5 trains to Sternschanze
Hint: The TV tower can also be reached conveniently by a short walk from Dammtor train station through the beautiful Planten un Blomen park.