Women Who Shape Hanover—Seven Special Profiles

Women who have shaped Hanover have left their mark on the arts, science, sports, culture, and society. Their stories take us from the Herrenhausen Gardens to the “Nanas” on the Leibnizufer and all the way to the international sports stage. Discover seven extraordinary women and their connection to Hanover.

Electoress Sophie—the Visionary Behind the Herrenhausen Gardens

To this day, the Herrenhausen Gardens tell the story of Electress Sophie of Hanover (1630–1714). At the end of the 17th century, she made the Great Garden her life’s work. Inspired by the Baroque gardens she had encountered in the Netherlands during her youth, she had the grounds designed according to the French model. Her vision can still be experienced today in the artfully arranged hedges, water features, sculptures, and the Great Fountain.

Paulina Paszek – Olympic Successes for Hanover

Paulina Paszek (born 1997) is one of Hannover’s most successful female canoeists. A native of Poland, she has been competing for the Hannover Canoe Club since 2019 and trains at the state training center in Ahlem. At the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, she won silver in the kayak four and bronze in the kayak double. With these achievements, she put Hannover on the international sports stage.

Caroline Herschel – From Hanover to the Stars

The extraordinary story of Caroline Herschel (1750–1848) began in Hanover. She was born and raised there before moving to England. Together with her brother Wilhelm, she devoted herself to astronomy there, discovered several comets, and gained international recognition. In her later years, the astronomer finally returned to her hometown of Hanover.

Eva Bender – Promoting Education and Culture

Eva Bender (born 1981) is shaping Hannover’s educational and cultural landscape through her commitment to educational equity, the promotion of reading, and cultural participation. Since November, she has served as Regional President, making her the first woman to lead the Hannover region. In this role, she is responsible for more than 1.2 million people.

Niki de Saint Phalle – Colorful Art on the Leibnizufer

With her colorful “Nanas,” Niki de Saint Phalle (1930–2003) left an indelible mark on Hanover. With these lively figures along the Leibnizufer, the French-American artist created one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Her art remains closely linked to Hanover’s cityscape to this day.

Mary Wigman – Pioneer of Modern Dance

Mary Wigman (1886–1973), born in Hanover, is considered one of the most influential figures in modern expressive dance. As a dancer, choreographer, and teacher, she broke with convention and developed a new language of movement. Her artistic work influenced generations and made her a pioneer in the history of international dance.

Hannah Arendt—a thinker of international significance

Hannah Arendt (1906–1975) was born in Hanover and is considered one of the most important political thinkers of the 20th century. The German-Jewish philosopher devoted herself to the study of freedom, democracy, and the origins of totalitarian rule. With works such as *The Origins of Totalitarianism* and *Vita Activa*, she had a lasting impact on political thought.