Hamburg – Hamburgum

Hamburg commented by Braun

“The Cimbrian Peninsula, the northernmost region of Germany, went by the name of Hutland, encompassing all the neighbouring islands, Holstein, Stormarn, Wagrien, Dithmarschen and the Duchy of Schleswig. However, during the reign of Charlemagne, the northern part of the peninsula was called Jutland but the lower part Holstein-Nordelbien. The latter is in turn divided into four regions, namely Holstein, Dithmarschen, Wagrien and Stormarn. Situated between the Rivers Elbe, Stör and Schwaland, Stormarn extends to the Trave and is endowed with the buildings, situation, trade and riches of the powerful city of Hamburg.”

Taschen on Hamburg

The tranquil illustration of Hamburg in Volume I showing the city from a low vantage point reveals its rural character, whereas the present bird’s-eye view presents a more modern city. Left of centre stands the 153-m-high tower of the church of St Nicholas (25). To the right is the spire of St Peter’s (18). The modern city landmark, the Hamburger Michel, was finished in 1786 as the tower of the Baroque church of St Michael. After the Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa granted the city port rights in 1189 and, therefore, tax exemption on trading with the entire Lower Elbe region, Hamburg grew into a vibrant commercial hub. Boasting up to 600 breweries, the city was the purveyor of beer to the Hanseatic League.