With Leibniz and Laves through Hanover

© HMTG

Passing through a magnificent golden gate, visitors to Hannover are transported back to the heart of the Baroque era: in the famous Great Garden of Herrenhausen, they can follow in the footsteps of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, who lived in Hannover over 300 years ago as one of the last polymaths. He designed the impressive water fountain in the Great Garden of Herrenhausen, which, at 80 meters, was the tallest in Europe at the time. He invented the first calculating machine, a replica of which can be seen today at Leibniz University in the Welfenschloss, right next to the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen. He also designed windmills, submarines, and nails with serrated edges—the precursors to dowels. The “Leibniz Tour” takes you to all the places in the city that commemorate the great thinker. The brochure “In the Footsteps of the Universal Scholar” lists all the stops, from the charming Leibniz House in the Old Town to the picturesque Leibniz Temple in the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen.

© Hannover Historical Museum

Hannover: "Very British"

The Architecture Trail also offers an interesting themed tour that winds its way through Hannover under the motto “very British”: From 1714 to 1837, Hannover’s kings sat on the throne of England, and numerous imposing monuments still stand today as a testament to this unique era. Court architect Georg Laves, in particular, left his mark on the city with his Neoclassical buildings. For example, he designed the charming Library Pavilion and the palace in Herrenhausen, which was rebuilt and now houses a museum dedicated to Hannover’s royal history. The Architecture Trail also offers special experiences, such as a visit to the 13th-century Aegidienkirche. It was destroyed during World War II and never rebuilt—its ruins now serve as a breathtaking open-air memorial.

Kdeal with

Hannover’s streets and squares are home to more sculptures and art installations than almost any other German city. Popular photo spots include, for example, the curvaceous, colorful Nanas by French artist Niki de Saint Phalle on the banks of the Leine River. The walking paths along Lake Masch also feature numerous historical works of art and modern installations that tell fascinating stories. As part of the unique series “Kunst umgehen,” guided tours and events featuring artists, urban planners, and historians are offered regularly. For more information, visit www.visit-hannover.com/kunstimoeffentlichenRaum

In addition to these walking tours, there are many other exciting tours available, whether on foot, by bike, or on an open-top double-decker bus. On a hop-on, hop-off city tour, you can get off at many attractions and hop back on. For more information, visit www.visit-hannover.com