Rissen

In 1255, a small village nestled along the Elbe River first appeared in historical records as “Risne.” This village, known today as Rissen, has a rich history intertwined with counts, shipowners, and even a bit of forestry. Rissen is Hamburg’s westernmost quarter. It sits within the borough of Altona, bordering Schleswig-Holstein. Rissen’s story began centuries ago as part of the County of Holstein-Pinneberg. This would have placed it in modern-day Schleswig-Holstein. However, the course of history had other plans. In 1789, the local government acquired a piece of Rissen. This land, known as Klövensteen, was transformed into a sprawling forest. This “Klövensteen state forest” remains a prominent feature of Rissen today. A prominent shipowner, Johan Cesar V. Godeffroy, further shaped Rissen’s destiny in the 19th century. He purchased a large portion of the area, designating it as his private hunting grounds. Rissen underwent a significant shift in 1927. It became part of the then independent city of Altona. Then, in 1938, the Greater Hamburg Act incorporated Altona into Hamburg. Thus, Rissen also became a part of Hamburg. Today, Rissen covers an area of 16.6 square kilometers. The Elbe River defines its southern border, separating it from Lower Saxony. Rissen’s northern landscape features the expansive Klövensteen forest, a haven for outdoor activities like walking, jogging, and horseback riding. This tranquil quarter offers more than just natural beauty. It’s home to the Asklepios Westklinikum Hamburg, a large hospital with a diverse range of departments. For those seeking recreation, Rissen boasts the prestigious Hamburger Golf-Club Falkenstein, considered one of the top golf courses worldwide. With its blend of history, nature, and modern amenities, Rissen stands as a unique and captivating quarter within the vibrant city of Hamburg.