Established in 1872 the Matthias-Claudius-Gymnasium stands proudly in Hamburg Wandsbek. Its story began not here but further down the road in Kurvenstrasse. It was then a Higher Citizen School with Gymnasium classes. The school’s current location near Wandsbek marketplace wasn’t its first home.
In 1888 a new building opened. It’s still standing today known as the “Altbau” or old building. This was long before the Witthöftstrasse received its name. It was then called Marktstrasse. Interestingly the building’s inauguration coincided with a significant event. On August 15 1890 the school was officially renamed. It adopted the name of the celebrated poet Matthias Claudius. To commemorate this occasion a bronze relief of Claudius was unveiled. Aloys Denoth the artist skillfully captured the poet’s likeness. It adorns the school’s facade to this day.
The school’s history wasn’t without its trials. The 1930s saw expansion. Central heating and student toilets were added. Sadly World War II brought devastation. A bombing raid in July 1943 almost completely destroyed the building. Classes resumed in the autumn of 1945. Lessons were held in the few remaining rooms of a wing that survived the bombing.
The postwar years witnessed remarkable resilience. The Altbau was painstakingly restored by 1950. A significant change accompanied this restoration. The main entrance was moved from the marketplace. It was relocated to the previously rear Witthöftstrasse. A captivating artwork once graced the school’s now-demolished auditorium. Kurt Bauer’s “Flying Swans” was a beautiful addition to the school. The artwork has been carefully preserved. It now adorns the east facade of the annex. The 1960s brought further expansions. These additions included new buildings and a new main entrance connected to a spacious new break hall.
The Matthias-Claudius-Gymnasium has played an important role in Hamburg’s educational landscape. From its beginnings as a boys-only school to its current status as a comprehensive institution its legacy is rich. The school’s commitment to excellence is further cemented by its success. It achieved remarkable rankings among Hamburg’s gymnasia. It was ranked number one for two consecutive years with impressively high numbers of applications.
The school’s story extends beyond its classrooms. The Student Rowing Club SRV has a long and proud tradition. Established in 1925 its activities were briefly interrupted by the war. In 1955 Gunter Schulz-Kriebel revived the club. He led the club to many victories in Hamburg and German student championships. Many former students went on to international success. This shows the school’s enduring impact on the lives of its students. Its history is a testament to its dedication to education and community. The Matthias-Claudius-Gymnasium remains a vital part of Hamburg’s cultural heritage.