Alster swans
These majestic waterfowl adorn the Binnen- and Außenalster as living symbols of the city.
The Alster swans are Hamburg’s living emblem and adorn the Binnen- and Außenalster. The close relationship to these majestic birds has a long tradition. From 1664 on, it was even forbidden to “insult”, injure, or kill them. Today, the white birds are considered to be the messengers of spring when they return to the Alster from their winter quarters.
