Herrenhausen Gardens
Niedersachsen
Herrenhausen Gardens, located in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany, is a distinguished complex of four gardens: the Great Garden, Berggarten, Georgengarten, and Welfengarten. The Great Garden is one of Europe's most significant baroque gardens, originally developed in the 17th century under the patronage of Duke Georg von Calenberg and later expanded by his successors, notably under the influence of Sophie von der Pfalz, who introduced Dutch baroque styles. The garden features grand fountains, including the historically notable Great Fountain which once reached heights up to 80 meters, cascades, grottos, and classical temples designed by Louis Remy de la Fosse. Berggarten evolved from a kitchen and cultivation garden into a botanical garden with over 12,000 plant species and includes a rainforest house and aquarium. The Georgengarten and Welfengarten, designed as English landscape gardens, offer freely accessible green spaces. Herrenhausen Gardens is a cultural and horticultural landmark, combining historical grandeur with botanical diversity and hosting various events throughout the year. The gardens have been restored and maintained to preserve their baroque character, while also embracing modern botanical research and public engagement.
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Tip: Visit Herrenhausen Gardens during spring and summer to enjoy the full bloom of its extensive plant collections and outdoor events. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended for special exhibitions and the Berggarten. The Georgengarten and Welfengarten are open year-round and free to visit. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the gardens' history and horticulture. Accessibility is good, and checking the official website for seasonal events and opening times can enhance your visit experience.
Interesting facts
- •The Great Fountain in the Great Garden once reached a height of approximately 80 meters, making it the tallest fountain of its time in Europe.
- •The Herrenhausen Gardens comprise four distinct gardens, each with unique styles: the baroque Great Garden, the botanical Berggarten, and the English landscape-style Georgengarten and Welfengarten.
- •The Great Garden's grotto was artistically redesigned between 2001 and 2003 by the team of artist Niki de Saint Phalle, featuring glass and mirror mosaics.
- •The Herrenhausen Gardens host the annual 'Kleines Fest', a popular festival showcasing music and performances with over 100 artists.
History
The Herrenhausen Gardens originated in the early 17th century when Duke Georg von Calenberg established a kitchen garden near the village of Höringehusen, later renamed Herrenhausen.
His son, Johann Friedrich, constructed a palace and initiated the creation of a pleasure garden that evolved into the Great Garden.
Significant expansion occurred during the reign of Duke Ernst August and his wife Sophie von der Pfalz, who redesigned the garden in the Dutch baroque style between 1676 and 1714.
The Great Fountain, a centerpiece, was constructed around 1700 and became one of Europe's tallest fountains.
The gardens declined in prominence after the mid-19th century due to political changes and neglect but were revitalized following their acquisition by the city of Hanover in 1936.
Post-World War II restoration efforts culminated by 1966 restored much of the garden's original baroque design.
Place Guide
Great Garden (Großer Garten)17th-18th century
The historic core of Herrenhausen Gardens, the Great Garden is a baroque masterpiece featuring geometrically arranged parterres, the impressive Great Fountain, cascades, a grotto, and classical temples designed by Louis Remy de la Fosse. Visitors can admire the garden's symmetry and water features, which reflect 17th and 18th-century garden design ideals.
BerggartenEstablished 17th century, evolved over centuries
Originally a kitchen and cultivation garden, the Berggarten evolved into a botanical garden housing over 12,000 plant species. It features a rainforest house and an aquarium, showcasing diverse flora and fauna. The garden serves both as a public attraction and a center for botanical research.
Georgengarten and WelfengartenDesigned in the 18th century
These two gardens are designed in the English landscape garden style, offering naturalistic landscapes with open green spaces, trees, and water features. They are freely accessible and maintained by the city of Hanover, providing peaceful retreats within the urban setting.
Contact
Phone: 0511 16834000
