NIEDERSACHSEN - HEAD FOR THE HORIZON

2024-06-12

How about a city break? In today’s edition we invite you to explore Niedersachsen’s rich cultural diversity, especially in art and architecture. We present outstanding architectural masterpieces and gems from the 20th and 21st century, as well as selected art museums focusing on modern and contemporary art.

Art and culture in Niedersachsen

Not only is Niedersachsen rich in natural treasures, it also has plenty of cultural attractions. For example, architecture and culture aficionados can marvel at buildings from almost all architectural eras: from medieval churches and monasteries, unique examples of the Weser Renaissance and Brick Gothic right through to a plethora of enchanting half-timbered houses. Moreover, notable international architects have left their mark in Niedersachsen with a modern touch. Niedersachsen’s museum landscape is likewise extremely diverse. Besides museums dedicated to themes such as industrial culture, history, technology, and maritime culture, there are lots of galleries and museums featuring exhibitions from Old Masters through to contemporary art.

Regional Portrait

Braunschweiger Land extends from Lüneburg Heath to the Harz Mountains in southeastern Niedersachsen. Visitors here can travel through time, with so many places to explore spanning from prehistoric times, the Middle Ages, the Baroque period through to industrialisation and the present day. The Schöningen Research Museum offers a fascinating insight into the early history of humans. This is where you can marvel at the Schöningen spears, which are thought to be the world’s oldest hunting weapons at over 300,000 years old. Castle Square in Brunswick brings the Middle Ages to life with its historical buildings. The Herzog Anton Ulrich-Museum is also located here. As one of Europe’s oldest museums, it houses a first-class art collection, including world-renowned Old Masters. By contrast, at the International Windmill Museum in Gifhorn, visitors are whisked back to the early days of industrialisation. This open-air museum is home to 13 original-sized windmills, offering a vivid insight into the milling techniques of yesteryear. And at Wolfsburg Art Museum, visitors can experience impressive modern architecture and a contemporary art collection.

City Portrait - Osnabrück

Located in southwest Niedersachsen, Osnabrück attracts keen historians, culture aficionados, and foodies alike. The Peace of Westphalia that sealed the end of the Thirty Years’ War was signed in the Peace Hall of the city hall. Another highlight is the Felix Nussbaum House in the museum quarter, designed by star architect Daniel Libeskind, which is home to works by the famous Jewish painter Felix Nussbaum and offers an in-depth insight into his life and art. The picturesque old town with its historical gabled buildings, independent shops and cosy cafés is perfect for relaxing and treating yourself. With three Michelin-starred restaurants, Osnabrück will appeal to food lovers in particular.

Picture from Geh mal reisen. Licence: CC0