The singing manhole cover

Just a few steps from Hannover Central Station, passersby and visitors will find one of the city’s most unusual attractions: a manhole cover that plays music. What at first glance looks like a perfectly ordinary manhole cover on Ernst-August-Platz turns out, upon closer listening, to be an art project that is likely one of a kind in Germany—a little underground disco.

 In 2000, Ernst-August-Platz was redesigned as part of the Expo. Architect Timm Ohrt came up with an idea that was as simple as it was original. The plan was to create a sound installation inside an existing manhole. Under the manhole cover, he installed two CD players, which have been providing musical surprises ever since. Thus, an unremarkable element of the urban landscape was transformed into a tongue-in-cheek work of art that playfully combines technology, everyday life, and culture.

If you pause for a moment, amid the hustle and bustle, the rolling of suitcases, and the sounds of the city, you’ll suddenly hear music that seems to rise directly from the ground. The installation, also known as Gullyman It’s well known for playing a variety of songs, including tracks by artists from Hanover. Time and again, people stop in their tracks, look around in search of the source, and smile when they discover where the melody is coming from. For many visitors, this moment is their first surprising glimpse of Hanover’s creative and humorous side.

Thanks to its location right next to the main train station, the singing manhole cover is easy to spot. It’s the perfect way to kick off a walking tour of the city. From Ernst-August-Platz, the Old Town, the shopping streets, and numerous sights are all within easy walking distance.

The Gullyman It exemplifies Hannover’s approach to art in public spaces. Here, art is meant to be accessible, to spark curiosity, and to surprise. In the midst of everyday life, this creates a small cultural moment that shows that Hannover has surprises in store even in the most unexpected places.

Here for more information on the singing manhole cover.

© HMTG

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