The Bunker Through Time

The Hamburg BUNKER is more than just an impressive structure – it’s a silent witness to the past. A place of transformation, where history remains visible while new ideas and experiences take shape.

Hamburg Bunker

Planning and Construction 1942/43

The Bunker was planned and built during World War II as a flak tower. Next to it stood a smaller command bunker, which was later replaced by the Telekom high-rise on Budapester Straße. During the air raids, the massive structure served not only as an anti-aircraft defense – with flak cannons positioned on its four corner turrets – but also as a shelter for local residents seeking protection.

Photo of the bunker before construction work on the extension began.© Adobe Stock, liboriop

Post-War Use from 1945 Onwards

The original plan for the bunker included a prestigious repurposing – with a white marble façade. To that end, windows were integrated during construction, although they were sealed during the war. After 1945, the bunker’s function changed fundamentally: it served as living space, hosted restaurants, a cinema, and a theater – and later even became the home of the NDR Tagesschau news broadcast. Over the decades, the former military structure transformed into a diverse and vibrant space.

Aerial view of the bunker and the surrounding neighborhoods of St. Pauli and Karoviertel - before construction work began. © Adobe Stock, Jonas Weinitschke

Concept Since 1993

In 1993, investor Matzen signed a hereditary lease agreement with the city. Since then, the site has been used as what is known as a "media bunker." The core concept: the former military structure from the Nazi era is transformed and reinterpreted – creating new spaces for encounters, both for the local community and for tourism.

Photos of the construction of the bunker extension - a crane can be seen in the background. © Adobe Stock, Patrycja

2000s to 2019

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, the St. Pauli Bunker continued to evolve. From the climbing gym Urban Apes and the well-known UFC Gym to the iconic techno club Uebel&Gefährlich, which has been an essential part of the scene since 2014 – the once somber structure has been brought to life more and more.

The bunker during the construction work for the extension - and nature is already looking forward to it.

Late 2010s to 2024

In 2017, the careful redevelopment of the Bunker was officially approved: A five-story addition created space for a hotel, gastronomy, fitness, and event areas. One of the highlights is the green facade and rooftop, turning the historic structure into an urban oasis. Since 2019, the Bunker has been growing – a fascinating fusion of history, modernity, and sustainability.

June 2024

The construction of the Bunker extension is complete, and the newly built REVERB by Hard Rock Hotel Hamburg welcomes its very first guest: Karl-Heinz Pischke. In 1945, at the age of 12, Mr. Pischke sought shelter in the bunker during the devastating bombing raids on Hamburg. Almost 80 years later, he returns as an honorary guest to spend the night in the newly opened hotel.

Men in smart suits hold the red sash - the symbolic sign for the opening of the Hamburg BUNKERS.

July 5, 2024

The Hamburg BUNKER officially opens its doors to all of Hamburg and visiting tourists. Within just a few days, thousands of people made their way up the green mountain path to the rooftop garden, the bar, and the hotel. A new chapter in the Bunker’s story has begun.