From the very beginning, the architects, von Gerkan, Marg und Partner, were interested in designing a classical arcade in order to preserve the existing urban structure. The proposals were confined mainly to the undeveloped interior of the street block, allowing the existing buildings around the edge to be retained and integrated into the overall concept. Flanked by roughly 60 shops, the arcade has four points of access. In addition to the retail shopping areas, the complex also contains a hotel, offices and a number of dwellings. In 1983, a parking block was added. The arcade as a building type experienced a genuine renaissance in the 1970s and 80s, and especially in Hamburg. Evidently this form was an effective way of establishing retail trade in the relatively deep blocks that existed there. With an overall length of approximately 250 metres, the Hanse Viertel arcade was the longest in Europe on completion. Some 100,000 people turned out for its opening on 8 November 1980, and it soon became a popular place for strolling and shopping, attracting an average of 23,000 visitors a day. Commercial success did not take long to arrive either. The turnover in the early years exceeded all expectations. (Julia Liese)