Alpine peaks and Hamburg longings — the Museum am Rothenbaum MARKK is dedicating its current exhibition to the fascinating relationship between Hamburg and Tyrol. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the majestic landscapes of Tyrol have enchanted Hanseatic society. With the advent of mass tourism, Hamburg’s wealthy population opened up the Alpine region, while scientists and collectors found a place for discovery and cultural exchange thanks to new railway lines and tourist infrastructure. But not only travellers were captivated by the Alpine idyll: large Alpine entertainment events, leisure parks with mountain backdrops and Tyrolean beer halls also brought the magic of the mountains closer to those Hamburg residents who were never able to travel to the Alps themselves.
The fascination with Tyrol is still evident in Hamburg’s culture and leisure activities today, especially during the famous ski holidays. The exhibition sheds light on these relationships, which extend to the present day, and focuses on the romanticised images of Tyrol. New old stories are brought to life and old stories are reinterpreted with contemporary perspectives. The MARKK invites visitors to find out more not only about Tyrol, but also about the Hamburg residents’ own longings and traditions — and thus takes a surprising look at a very special Alpine friendship.
