Jungfernsteg is Hamburg's place for respite. On a spring day one takes a place along the walls and benches in the tender heat, beside the lake's water and amongst the naked tree rows - to sit and enjoy the space between town and water. On a sunny summer afternoon the tables of cafes are full and those strolling with beverages are also eager to see whether there is somebody they know.
The low promenade goes from east to west passing Binnenalster near Reesendammbrucke and uniting with the lake. Under Reesendamsbrucke a new path along the water establishes a link to the city hall square. The middle of the site descends towards the lower promenade - here, the staircase and the slanting ramp lead those walking all the way down to the water and out to the new pier.
At night, the great Heavens press over Binnenalster giving the place it's most important quality. The space is list so the surface is shining and one can still see over the lake without been dazzled. Rows of beautiful lamps send a reflected light down onto the covering in the twilight. Mixing white light with a faint red colour, it quivers against the Heaven's master with mockery sending a fine light down through the trees and using the tree as one's reflector. Along the promenade, fine covered shining glass inserts create a varied pattern that further emphasizes this green space.
