St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel

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This is Old Elbe Tunnel or St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel in Hamburg, Germany. This 426-meter long tunnel serves both vehicles and pedestrians in one of the busiest harbors in the world - Hamburg. Sitting 24 meters beneath the water surface of Elbe River, the tunnel provides a link between central Hamburg and the docks and shipyards on the other side of the river. The lifts or elevators on either side of the tunnel provide access for vehicles and pedestrians down to the bottom. Staircases which are also available on either side of the tunnel allow pedestrians another option to get in and out of the tunnel.

While most tunnel users prefer to ride the lift, I prefer to use the staircase instead. Obviously, going up back to land surface from underneath is somehow strenuous but on top of it, I find it as good exercise in return.

Lifts use for vehicles

Entrance to the tunnel

Staircase down to the tunnel

Glazed architectural display of fish, crabs and other items are displayed on the tunnel walls. At present, Old Elbe Tunnel or St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel is one of Hamburg's tourist attractions and many tourists prefer to take the long walk underneath the river to reach to the other side instead of hiring taxis or taking a bus ride.