Located on the banks of the Elbe River, it stands as an impressive reminder of one of Europe’s most influential political figures.
Otto von Bismarck was born in Schönhausen, Prussia (now part of Germany) on April 1st, 1815. He served as Prime Minister of Prussia from 1862 until 1890 and then became the first Chancellor of a unified Germany from 1871 until his resignation in 1890. As Chancellor, he was instrumental in unifying various German states into what we now know as modern Germany. His legacy also includes introducing social welfare policies such as health insurance and pension schemes for all citizens, regardless of class or creed.
In 1906, plans were made to erect a monument honouring Otto von Bismarck with funds raised by public subscription throughout Germany. The project was finally completed on May 28th 1915 when Kaiser Wilhelm II inaugurated the memorial at its current location overlooking Hamburg harbour along the Elbe River estuary. It consists of two large bronze figures atop a granite pedestal: one depicting Bismarck himself holding up an imperial crown while standing next to another figure representing “the Fatherland” which holds aloft an eagle with spread wings, symbolizing German unity under his leadership.
Standing at over 100 feet tall and weighing more than 500 tons, this imposing monument is hard to miss. It has become one of Hamburg’s most popular tourist attractions; visitors can climb inside the base, where they will find several rooms filled with information about Otto von Bismarck’s life and accomplishments, including photographs and documents related to his time as leader of Prussia/Germany during that period in history. Additionally, there are numerous statues around it depicting important people from that era who worked alongside him such as Helmuth Graf Moltke – Chief Of Staff Of The Imperial German Army – or Albrecht Von Roon – Minister Of War From 1860 To 1870 And Later Interior Minister For A Unified German Empire Under Emperor William Ii.
In recent years some controversy has arisen regarding whether this statue should remain due to its association with militaristic values associated with imperialism, but despite this debate many still flock here each year seeking out knowledge about this fascinating man whose vision helped shape modern day Europe.
