Brunswick: Germany's Historic City

Brunswick, or Braunschweig, is a city in the federal state of Lower Saxony, Germany. It is located north of the Harz Mountains, at the farthest navigable point of the Oker River, which connects to the North Sea via the Aller and Weser rivers. The city's origin is unknown, but legend says it was founded in 861 by Bruno, a Saxon count. It was improved by Henry the Lion, duke of Saxony, in the 12th century and became a leading member of the Hanseatic League in the 13th century. It was the capital city of three successive states before 1918 and was later incorporated into the state of Lower Saxony in 1946. Today, Brunswick is the second-largest city in Lower Saxony and a major centre for scientific research and development.

Brunswick's location and transport links

Brunswick, or Braunschweig in German, is a city in Lower Saxony, Germany, with a population of around 250,000. It is located north of the Harz Mountains at the farthest navigable point of the River Oker, which connects it to the North Sea via the rivers Aller and Weser. The city is served by two main autobahns: the A2 (Berlin-Hanover-Dortmund) and the A39 (Salzgitter-Wolfsburg).

Brunswick is well-connected to other parts of Germany and Europe by road, rail, and air. The city's central location makes it a major stop for bus travel, with frequent services to cities in Eastern Europe, particularly Poland. By car, Berlin can be reached in two hours, and Hamburg, Bremen, and Kassel in one and a half hours.

The Braunschweig Hauptbahnhof (central train station) is well-served by the German national railway company, Deutsche Bahn, with many high-speed trains stopping in the city. Picturesque Goslar and the Harz Mountains, as well as the Luneburg Heath, can be reached by local train.

The nearest commercial airport is Hannover Airport, approximately 30-40 minutes away by car or around an hour by train. Brunswick Airport is primarily a research airport used by the Technical University of Braunschweig and various federal agencies. However, it is served by Volkswagen Air Services, offering a few destinations in Europe.

Public transportation within Brunswick is provided by the Braunschweiger Verkehrs-AG, with places within the city easily accessible by bus or tram. The city centre itself is mostly a car-free pedestrian zone, with an extensive system of bicycle-only lanes.

The city's history and rulers

The city of Brunswick, Germany, has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Initially ruled by the Saxon noble family of the Brunonids, the city later came under the control of the House of Welf. In 1142, Henry the Lion of the House of Welf became the duke of Saxony and made Brunswick his capital. He transformed the city into a trading power and left a lasting impact on the city, including the construction of the Cathedral of St. Blasius and the statue of a lion, his heraldic animal.

Following Henry the Lion's exile in 1182, his son Otto continued to foster the city's development. Brunswick became a powerful centre of commerce and was a member of the Hanseatic League from the 13th to the 17th century. The city was also a cultural centre, with dukes such as Anthony Ulrich and Charles I becoming patrons of the arts and sciences.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Brunswick was the capital of several successive states: the Principality of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel, the Duchy of Brunswick, and the Free State of Brunswick. During this period, the city experienced industrialisation and rapid population growth. In the aftermath of World War I, a socialist workers' council forced the Duke Ernest Augustus to abdicate, leading to the establishment of the Socialist Republic of Brunswick.

Brunswick played a significant role during World War II, serving as a sub-area headquarters of Wehrkreis XI and the garrison city of the 31st Infantry Division. The city suffered extensive damage during the Allied air raid in October 1944, which destroyed many of its churches and the Altstadt (old town).

Today, Brunswick is the second-largest city in Lower Saxony and is known for its scientific research and development. It holds the title of "City of Science" and is home to the Braunschweig University of Technology. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, including the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, one of the most prominent art museums in Lower Saxony.

Economy and industry

Brunswick, Germany, is a city in the federal state of Lower Saxony, north of the Harz Mountains. It is a major centre of scientific research and development, with a focus on the automotive, steel, and food and beverage industries.

Automotive Industry

Brunswick is home to several automotive companies, including Volkswagen, which has a presence in the city itself and in the nearby town of Wolfsburg. Other automotive companies with a presence in Brunswick include Siemens, Bombardier Transportation, and Bosch. The defunct truck and bus manufacturer Büssing was also headquartered in the city.

Steel Industry

The district of Brunswick is known for its steel industry, particularly in the nearby towns of Salzgitter and Peine. Salzgitter AG, a major steel producer, is based in Salzgitter.

Food and Beverage Industry

Brunswick has a rich history of food and beverage production, including the Mumme malt extract, which was first produced in the city in 1390 and shipped worldwide. The city is also known for its breweries and unique beer, with two major breweries—Hofbrauhaus Wolters and Feldschlößchen—still producing beer in Brunswick today.

Brunswick is also associated with the production of Braunschweiger Mettwurst, a soft, spreadable smoked pork sausage named after the city. Other traditional local dishes and beverages include white asparagus, Braunkohl (a variant of kale), Uhlen un Apen (a type of pastry), and Mumme beer.

Research and Development

Brunswick has a strong focus on research and development, with the region investing a significant portion of its GDP in this sector. The city is home to several universities and research institutes, including the Technische Universität Carolo-Wilhelmina zu Braunschweig, the Hochschule für Bildende Künste Braunschweig, and the Welfenakademie Braunschweig. Additionally, there are 19 research institutes in the region, such as the Johann Heinrich von Thuenen Institute and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research.

Other Industries

In addition to the automotive, steel, and food and beverage industries, Brunswick also has a diverse range of other industries. These include piano manufacturing, with two well-known piano companies, Schimmel and Grotrian-Steinweg, based in the city. The fashion label NewYorker and the publishing house Westermann Verlag also have their headquarters in Brunswick.

Culture and attractions

Brunswick, or Braunschweig, is a city steeped in history and culture. The city combines the traditional with the modern, boasting a wealth of monuments from its rich history, as well as modern architecture, a vibrant art scene, and sprawling parks.

Burgplatz

In the heart of Brunswick lies the Burgplatz, a great place to start your visit to this beautiful city. Here, you'll find the Brunswick Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Blasius, the Dankwarderode Castle, and the iconic bronze statue of the Brunswick Lion. The Burgplatz is surrounded by historic buildings, including the guild hall and a row of timber-framed houses.

Dankwarderode Castle

Dating back to the 12th century, Dankwarderode Castle is a small fortress built by Henry the Lion. The castle now houses the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, which features a remarkable collection of medieval artworks, including the original Brunswick Lion.

Brunswick Cathedral

The attractive Romanesque and Gothic Brunswick Cathedral is the final resting place of Henry the Lion and his wife Mathilde. The cathedral also houses the tombs of Emperor Otto IV and his wife Beatrix. Other highlights include a massive candelabrum presented by Henry the Lion and the Imerward Crucifix from 1150.

Magniviertel District

One of Braunschweig's oldest districts, the Magniviertel is a charming neighbourhood filled with timber-framed buildings, rustic pubs, boutique shops, and cosy cafes. The Kirchplatz square is a popular spot for dining, with outdoor seating and a small farmers' market.

Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum

The Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum is the most prominent art museum in Lower Saxony. The museum boasts an extensive collection of Old Masters, including works by Rubens, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Dürer, Cranach the Elder, and Holbein the Younger. The print collection is also impressive, with tens of thousands of drawings, engravings, and wood prints.

Happy Rizzi House

The Happy Rizzi House is a unique and colourful building designed by American pop artist James Rizzi. The five-story structure features bright pop-art murals and is considered one of the top 100 most attractive buildings in Germany.

Schloss Richmond

Schloss Richmond, or Richmond Castle, is a Baroque ensemble of a summer palace and outhouses, built in 1769 for Duchess Augusta. The palace is surrounded by four-acre English gardens and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Riddagshausen Abbey

Located in the eastern suburb of Riddagshausen, the Riddagshausen Abbey was constructed in 1145 by a courtesan to Henry the Lion. The site features the St. Maria Abbey Cistercian Church, the oldest Gothic structure in Germany, and the Cistercian Museum, which traces the history and culture of the Cistercian Order.

Hagenmarkt

Hagenmarkt is a historic market square featuring St. Catherine's Church, a 12th-century Protestant church with a unique organ. The square also has the Heinrichsbrunnen, a fountain erected in honour of Henry the Lion.

Altstadtmarkt

The Altstadtmarkt is a public square built in the 12th century, featuring stunning architecture of immense historical importance. Notable buildings include the Old City Hall, the Church of St. Martin, the Old Customs House, the Cloth Merchant's House, and the Fountain of the Virgin Mary.

Food and drink

Brunswick in Lower Saxony, Germany, has a rich culinary heritage with some unique specialties. The region is known for its delicious food and drinks, incorporating ingredients like honey, beer, and kale.

Local Specialities

One of the most famous drinks in Brunswick is the Braunschweiger Mumme, a local beer with a long history dating back to the late Middle Ages. This brew was once exported worldwide and has recently been revived, regaining its popularity in local pubs and restaurants.

When it comes to food, Brunswick offers a variety of specialties like Braunkohl mit Brägenwurst. Braunkohl is the local name for kale, which is served with Brägenwurst, a raw ground pork sausage with onions, salt, and pepper. During the Carnival season, Prilleken are a popular snack—these are doughnuts made from flour, milk, yeast, sugar, and butter, often sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon.

Another local favourite is Braunschweiger Wurst, a spreadable sausage made with briefly smoked, coarse-ground pork and spiced with garlic. This sausage is commonly enjoyed on breakfast tables and in sandwiches.

Seasonal Delights

Like much of Germany, Brunswick celebrates the arrival of spring with a focus on white asparagus. From April to June, asparagus dishes dominate the menus of local restaurants, offering a range of classic and creative options.

Sweet Treats

One of the region's sweet specialties is the Honigkuchen, a honey cake with a long tradition in Brunswick. This treat is similar to gingerbread and is often enjoyed during the Christmas season. The city is also known for its unique pastry called Uhlen un Apen, which means "Owls and Guenons." These sweet cakes are inspired by a legendary tale from the early 16th century and are shaped like owls and monkeys.

Dining in Brunswick

For those looking to indulge in the local cuisine, Brunswick offers a variety of dining options. Richard's Restaurant, located on Maine Street, is a family-owned gem serving authentic German dishes like Sauerbraten, schnitzel, and strudel, along with American favourites. The staff can guide you through their selection of imported German beers and wines or offer familiar American spirits to pair with your meal.

For a more casual dining experience, Bolos is a modern pub serving American fare, with a variety of entertainment options like darts, corn hole, and live music.

Local Produce

The region also boasts family-owned businesses and local producers. Wild Oats Bakery & Cafe is a family-run cafe, bakery, and deli specialising in homemade, all-natural food. Morning Glory Natural Foods is another family-owned business, offering local and organically grown foods, along with specialty wines and cheeses.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a foodie or just looking to explore the local culture, Brunswick, Germany, offers a delightful culinary journey with its unique specialties, seasonal delights, and sweet treats. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, the region's food and drink scene is sure to satisfy any appetite.

Frequently asked questions