Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine

The Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine is a research center in St. Pauli focused on studying pathogens from warm climates. Around 250 specialists work in the laboratories on molecular, immunological, and diagnostic questions related to health in tropical regions.

The center opened in 1900 in a former naval hospital as a direct response to the major cholera outbreak eight years earlier. Initially, 24 staff members handled diagnosis and research on tropical diseases.

The building bears the name of the Hamburg port physician who founded the center after the cholera outbreak. Scientists now assist travelers from around the world with vaccinations and medical guidance for visits to tropical areas.

The site sits near the Landungsbrücken piers and is easily reached by public transport. Visitor groups can join tours and specialist talks after booking in advance.

Researchers store the largest German collection of rare virus strains from tropical areas inside high-security labs. These samples allow the development of new therapies against pathogens that are barely available elsewhere.

Location: Hamburg-Mitte

Inception: 1900

Website: http://bnitm.de

GPS coordinates: 53.54694,9.96500

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:31