Fifty meters of history. That’s the Springer-Haus. Right here before us stands this impressive building. It’s more than just concrete and glass.
The Springer-Haus in Hamburg served as the Axel Springer publishing house headquarters from 1956 to 1967. It’s a significant piece of post-war Hamburg architecture. Its location on Axel-Springer-Platz is no accident. This spot once held the Conventgarten a ballroom and concert hall. Sadly it was destroyed in the devastating bombings of July 24 1943.
The building’s design is credited to Ferdinand Streb. Notice the rough marble strips on the facade. They give the Springer-Haus its distinctive look. Inside the foyer you’ll find a monumental two-part mosaic. It’s considered the most important work of artist Wilhelm Haerlin. It truly is a hidden gem.
Construction started on November 28 1950. Five years later in the spring of 1956 the Springer-Haus was inaugurated. The building became a symbol of post-war rebuilding. It’s also a silent witness to a dark chapter in German history. On May 19 1972 the Red Army Faction RAF planted a bomb here. Seventeen people were injured.
The Springer-Haus has changed hands a few times. In 2016 the Momeni Immobilien Holding GmbH and Black Horse Investments purchased it. Later it was sold again. Now a consortium of medical and professional care providers owns it. Axel Springer SE however remains a long-term tenant maintaining its Hamburg branch here.
In 1997 the Springer-Haus received landmark status. This reflects its historical and architectural importance. A remarkable testament to its resilience. Even the eastern part the Springer-Passage which opened in 1997 holds a story. It was sold to the Hamburg-Mitte district in 2016. Today it’s home to the district office.
The Springer-Haus is not just a building. It’s a microcosm of Hamburg’s history. A story of destruction rebirth and continued relevance. A silent observer of the city’s growth and transformation. It’s a piece of Hamburg’s soul.