Core Viewpoint - The Hamburg International Maritime Museum showcases the significant role of Chinese maritime history and figures, particularly Zheng He, in the global narrative of maritime exploration and trade [4][6][8]. Group 1: Museum Overview - The museum, converted from an old port warehouse, spans 10 floors with over 12,000 square meters of exhibition space, primarily featuring the collection of the late Hamburg maritime historian Peter Tamm [4]. - Exhibits include Chinese ship models, Qing Dynasty naval uniforms, ivory ship carvings, maritime documents, and porcelain, presenting China as a key player in global maritime civilization rather than a mere observer [4]. Group 2: Zheng He and Maritime History - Zheng He is highlighted as an essential figure in global maritime history, alongside Columbus and Magellan, with a statue prominently displayed in the museum [6][8]. - The museum features a model of Zheng He's treasure ship, emphasizing China's early exploration efforts, which predate European discoveries by about 100 years [8]. Group 3: Modern Maritime Connections - The museum houses a model of the "Capricorn" cargo ship, donated by COSCO Shipping, representing modern China's global shipping capabilities and its connection to Hamburg [9][10]. - Historical data indicates that China has been Hamburg's largest trading partner for several years, with projected container throughput from China reaching 2.2 million standard containers in 2024, accounting for nearly 30% of the port's total throughput [10]. Group 4: Sino-German Maritime Relations - The museum contains historical documents related to the Chinese armored cruiser Dingyuan, built in the 19th century, symbolizing early Sino-German maritime interactions [11]. - The construction and delivery of the Dingyuan enhanced mutual understanding between China and Germany, marking a significant chapter in their maritime history [11].