Dear readers,
Welcome to my monthly blog, which this time takes you into the festive atmosphere of Hamburg just before Christmas. In this article, I will introduce you to the fascinating history of the Wichernkranz, an important element of the Advent season whose origins are deeply rooted in the roots of this Hanseatic city.
The Wichern wreath: a Hamburg heritage
The Wichern wreath, named after its inventor Pastor Johann Hinrich Wichern, dates back to the 19th century and is considered the forerunner of the Advent wreath – and Advent calendar – that is widely used today. Wichern, a native of Hamburg, developed this wreath in 1839 as a symbol to shorten the waiting time in his children’s home for Christmas. At the time, the wreath consisted of a wooden ring with up to 27 candles – one for each day of Advent. The number varied depending on which day the first Sunday of Advent fell on. This tradition is still practiced in many large buildings today. For everyday use, the Wichernkranz has become the Advent wreath, which has four candles – one for each Sunday in Advent. Incidentally, the Rauhe Haus still exists today.
Christmas market: a feast for the senses
During Advent, Hamburg offers a variety of Christmas markets that transform the city into a sparkling winter wonderland. From the traditional Christmas market at the town hall to the modern markets on the Elbe, every visitor will find festive cheer and handmade gifts. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and enjoy local delicacies such as roasted almonds, bratwurst and hot mulled wine.
Illuminated city center: Hamburg in a blaze of light
Hamburg’s city center shines in an impressive blaze of lights during the Advent season. The magnificently illuminated streets and squares, including the popular Mönckebergstraße shopping street, create a magical atmosphere that puts visitors in the Christmas spirit. Take a stroll along the festively decorated Alster and admire the wintry backdrop of this charming city.
Hamburg is always worth a visit
Although the Wichernkranz has its origins in Hamburg, the city is worth a visit at any time of year. The mixture of maritime flair, historic architecture and modern city life makes Hamburg a unique destination. Take the opportunity to discover the many sights, museums and cultural events.
Contact me for an individual city tour
Would you like to experience Hamburg from a new perspective? Feel free to contact me for an individual city tour in German, English, French or Spanish. Discover the hidden treasures of the city and let yourself be enchanted by its history and charm. You can also find more interesting topics in my other blog articles at www.janning-picker.de/blog.
I wish you a peaceful Advent season and look forward to welcoming you to Hamburg soon.
Best regards,
HamburgGuideSarah
