Binnenalster (pronounced [ˈbɪnənˌʔalstɐ] ) or Inner Alster Lake is one of two artificial lakes within the city limits of Hamburg, Germany, which are formed by the river Alster (the other being the Außenalster). The main annual festival is the Alstervergnügen.

Binnenalster
Inner Alster
The emblematic view from Lombardsbrücke
Jungfernstieg and Rathaus in the background
Binnenalster is located in Hamburg
Binnenalster
Binnenalster
Location Hamburg
Coordinates53°33′18″N 9°59′42″E / 53.55500°N 9.99500°E / 53.55500; 9.99500
Typeartificial lake
Primary inflowsAlster (Außenalster)
Primary outflowsAlster (Kleine Alster)
Basin countriesGermany
Surface area0.2 km2 (20 ha)
Average depth2.0 m (6.6 ft)
Max. depth3.0 m (9.8 ft)

The lake has an area of 0.2 square kilometres (0.077 sq mi).[1]

Overview

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Map of Hamburg around 1660

History

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The phrase "inner" refers to the old city walls of Hamburg. The Binnenalster was the part of the lake that was "inside" the city walls. The lake was originally created to serve as a reservoir for a mill. As of 2008 the old city walls do not exist, instead two car and train bridges, the Lombardsbrücke and the Kennedybrücke, span the river.

Location

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The Binnenalster is bordered by embankment streets on three sides, only the northern side is bordered by a park. Jungfernstieg – on the southern side, opposite this park is a busy boulevard and center of the Binnenalster. Left and right, Ballindamm and Neuer Jungfernstieg accommodate a number of corporate headquarters and first class hotels.

Public events

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Alstervergnügen

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The Alstervergnügen (English: Alster enjoyment) is an annual street fair held around the lake. It always takes place throughout the first weekend of September, and offers a wide variety of food, drink, vending and games stands, as well as some rock bands.

 
Binnenalster on a cloudy day
 
Binnenalster at night

See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ Source: statistical office of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein (2006)

References

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  • Statistical office Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein Statistisches Amt für Hamburg und Schleswig-Holstein (2007). "Statistisches Jahrbuch 2006/2007" (PDF). Statistisches Jahrbuch Hamburg. Hamburg, Germany: Statistisches Amt für Hamburg und Schleswig-Holstein. ISSN 1614-8045.[permanent dead link]
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