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Discovering Braunschweig

A City of Lions, Art, and History

Braunschweig, a city in northern Germany, offers a captivating blend of a rich medieval past, royal heritage, and modern urban life. Known for its iconic lion statue and stunning architecture, the city invites visitors to explore its historic plazas, serene green spaces, and vibrant cultural scene.

This interactive Google My Map shows locations with information that can be displayed by clicking on the symbols. It has sidebar index and displays best in full-frame by clicking the box in top-right. The map can be used on your phone or tablet when visiting a city, showing you where to go and describing the sights. You are welcome to make a copy as described here. Braunschweig can be visited as a daytrip from Hannover, 40-minutes by train.

The Historic Heart of the City

Begin your journey at the Burgplatz, the historic plaza that serves as the city's heart and starting point for sightseeing. It's home to several key landmarks, including the Braunschweig Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of St. Blasius), a magnificent 12th-century Romanesque and Gothic church that houses the tombs of Henry the Lion and his wife, Mathilde. You can also explore Dankwarderode Castle, a restored medieval castle that now forms part of the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum.

The plaza is also where you'll find the iconic Brunswick Lion statue, a symbol of the city's power. For the best vantage point, walk up the Burgplatz Steps for an unobstructed view of the cathedral and castle. The Altstadtmarkt is another main historic market square, a former Hanseatic commercial hub bustling with weekly markets and framed by Renaissance and Gothic merchant houses, including the Old Town Hall.

Parks, Gardens, and Nature

Braunschweig is encircled by the Oker River, which provides a green belt with parks and walking paths. The Oker River and Promenade is a scenic setting for boat tours or a relaxing stroll along the tree-lined views. For a peaceful escape, visit the Botanical Garden Braunschweig, a university-maintained garden featuring a diverse collection of local and exotic plants. The Botanischer Garten Riddagshausen is a natural reserve on the city's outskirts with walking trails, lakes, and birdwatching opportunities. Within the city, the Bürgerpark is a large landscaped urban park with the Oker River flowing through it, perfect for recreation. You can also relax at Westpark or Stadtpark, both offering lawns and playgrounds. On the outskirts of the city, the Richmond Palace, a small Baroque palace, is surrounded by a beautiful English-style garden.

Shopping, Art, and Modern Life

Braunschweig offers a vibrant blend of shopping, culture, and unique architecture. The Braunschweig Palace and Schloss-Arkaden is a reconstructed Neoclassical palace facade that serves as the entrance to a modern shopping center, combining historic exterior with a contemporary interior. The Braunschweig Town Center is a large pedestrian zone with streets like Bohlweg and Kohlmarkt, lined with shops, cafes, and department stores. For a taste of modern art, visit the Happy Rizzi House, a colorful and playful building designed by artist James Rizzi near the Magniviertel, a charming historic quarter with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. The Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, one of Europe's oldest art museums, houses a vast collection from the Middle Ages to modern times. The Braunschweig State Theater is a historic venue for opera and drama, while the Kunstverein Braunschweig showcases contemporary art.