Marco Polo Terraces and Unilever House

Why is it significant?

Take in the sculpted grassy hillocks and curving timber lounge decks of the Marco Polo Terraces, facing south across the broad expanse of Grasbrookhafen. Standing immediately behind the promenade is the striking Unilever House, whose transparent, foil-wrapped facade glistens in the northern light.

Key Facts

Open the walk

Take in the sculpted grassy hillocks and curving timber lounge decks of the Marco Polo Terraces, facing south across the broad expanse of Grasbrookhafen. Standing immediately behind the promenade is the striking Unilever House, whose transparent, foil-wrapped facade glistens in the northern light. Completed in 2009 by Behnisch Architekten, this celebrated corporate building stands as a global beacon of ecological design.

The building's outer envelope is made of inflated fluoroplastic foil cushions that shield the inner glass walls from harsh harbor winds and direct solar heat while allowing natural daylight to illuminate a central seven-story atrium. Every brick and timber here breathes the unmistakable spirit of a city forged by maritime enterprise and proud civic autonomy. Generations of sailors, traders, and master builders left their indelible imprint on this living urban landscape. From soaring Gothic church spires to subterranean transport tunnels, human ingenuity continually redefined the limits of what this harbor could achieve.

Rising beside the plaza is the Marco Polo Tower, a seventeen-story luxury residential tower where every single floor is twisted slightly against the one below. This daring spiral geometry gives each apartment an unobstructed, private view of passing container ships on the river. Walking through these historic quarters reveals how deeply the rhythms of sea trade continue to shape the character of northern Germany. It is precisely this vibrant interplay of tradition and renewal that makes exploring Hamburg such an unforgettable experience. Every historic landmark on this route connects past achievements with the restless, innovative future of this great port city.

The terraces themselves are planted with native silver willows and coastal grasses that thrive in salty maritime breezes, offering sheltered sun traps even on brisk autumn mornings. The unique harmony of salt air, bold engineering, and centuries of merchant grit lends this setting its enduring magnetic charm. Visitors walking these waterfront streets can easily sense the quiet pride that defines the northern merchant character.

Stroll inland along the promenade toward the shady green lawns of Grasbrookpark.