Neues Rathaus

 A landmark and one of the most popular photo spots

Many visitors are surprised when they stand in front of this magnificent building and hear it referred to as the New City Hall. Given its size and grand architecture, it seems more historic—almost like a relic from more majestic times, when Hanover was still a kingdom. In fact, however, after twelve years of construction, the City Hall was not officially inaugurated until June 20, 1913. “All paid for in cash, Your Majesty,” the city director at the time, Heinrich Tramm, proudly announced to Emperor Wilhelm II, who had come to attend the inauguration. The city had spent over ten million marks on its new magnificent building, which was constructed by architects Eggert and Halmhuber on 6,026 beechwood piles.
City Hall is the seat of the mayor, the head of Hanover’s city administration. This is where political bodies meet, the city’s official guests are received, exhibitions are held, and the citizens’ office is located. But the doors are always wide open to other visitors as well. And a visit is always worthwhile.
In the City Hall lobby, beneath the nearly 100-meter-high dome, four city models are on display, depicting Hanover in the Middle Ages and the pre-war era, the destruction of 1945, and today’s city center. These models are a major attraction. From the imposing domed hall, the route leads through the east wing to the new Citizens’ Hall, where exhibitions are held and smaller events take place. In October 1999, the International Press Center—co-sponsored by Hannover-based Madsack Verlagsanstalt GmbH—was opened, providing journalists from around the world with state-of-the-art working facilities during EXPO 2000. Before and after EXPO, the Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung (HAZ) and the Neue Presse (NP) each had—and still have—a permanent workspace here with a dedicated line to their editorial systems—a service that no other major German city offers its local press.
During guided tours conducted by Hannover Marketing and Tourism GmbH, visitors are shown not only the four city models but also the “Hodlersaal” meeting room. This room houses the monumental mural “Einmütigkeit” by the Swiss artist Ferdinand Hodler, which depicts Hanover’s transition to the Reformation. Please note that meeting rooms may only be entered if no meeting is currently taking place there. The arched elevator leading to the dome is unique in the world. On the way up, you’ll first be transported vertically and then at an angle of 17 degrees. From here, you have a magnificent view of the entire city; on a clear day, you can even see as far as the Harz Mountains. Please note that access to the dome is not possible during the winter season (mid-November through the end of February) due to weather conditions.
In the southern section, the bistro “Der Gartensaal” invites you to enjoy culinary specialties from both Hanoverian and international cuisines. Here in the historic Gartensaal—which formerly housed the city treasury offices and was completely restored for EXPO 2000—you’ll find one of the highlights of Hanover’s dining scene, with a beautiful view of Maschteich and Maschpark, the Twin Cities Park. It’s also ideal for events of all kinds, from family celebrations to exclusive gala evenings.