Kleine Moorweide

Nestled between the bustling Mittelweg and Neue Rabenstraße lies Kleine Moorweide, a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Kleine Moorweide is more than just a green space. It’s a living testament to Hamburg’s rich history. Originally part of a larger area simply known as the “Moorweide” (literally “moor meadow”), this area served as grazing land for livestock. Later, it transformed into a defensive glacis and a training ground for the civic militia. As Hamburg expanded in the 19th century, the area around Kleine Moorweide became increasingly residential, with elegant villas popping up in the Rotherbaum district. The city planners, mindful of the residents’ desire for open space, intentionally left the Moorweide undeveloped. This decision preserved a vital green lung in the heart of the city. The western part of the larger Moorweide once housed a magnificent exhibition hall, built in 1881. This wasn’t just any building. It was a cross-shaped glass and iron structure, originally designed by Gustave Eiffel for the Paris World’s Fair. It hosted grand events, including a singers’ festival and even Carl Hagenbeck’s “Singhalese Caravan.” Sadly, fire destroyed the hall in 1885, leaving a void on the Moorweide. In 1919, part of the original Moorweide became the site of the University of Hamburg’s main building, further shrinking the open area. What remains today is divided into the Große Moorweide (Great Moor Meadow) and the smaller Kleine Moorweide, our current location. Kleine Moorweide, while smaller than its larger sibling, offers a charming green retreat. It’s a popular spot for dog walkers, as evidenced by its designation as a designated dog exercise area. Though lacking park benches, it does offer a convenient waste bin and a generally clean environment. The proximity to busy roads and parked cars might pose a slight challenge for ball-throwing activities. However, the open space provides a welcome area for dogs to run and play. Kleine Moorweide may be the smaller sibling, but it plays a significant role in the fabric of Hamburg’s green spaces. It represents a conscious decision to prioritize nature amidst urban development.