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Kriegerdenkmal: A Silent Witness to History

Reflect on Hannover's history at the Kriegerdenkmal on Welfenplatz, a place of remembrance and contemplation amidst a vibrant urban setting.

The Kriegerdenkmal (War Memorial) in Hannover stands as a solemn reminder of the past, located on Welfenplatz in the Vahrenwald-List district. This historical landmark serves as a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in past conflicts. While the original monument has been lost to time, the site remains a place for reflection and remembrance. Situated in a green space, it offers a quiet escape from the city's bustle, inviting visitors to contemplate the impact of war and the importance of peace. The surrounding area, Welfenplatz, adds to the experience with its own history as a former military training ground, now transformed into a park enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The Kriegerdenkmal, though altered, continues to be a significant historical touchpoint within Hannover.

A brief summary to Kriegerdenkmal

  • Am Welfenpl. 1A, Hanover, Vahrenwald-List, 30161, DE

Local tips

  • Take a moment for quiet reflection on the history of the site and the impact of war.
  • Explore the surrounding Welfenplatz, a former military training ground turned public park.
  • Visit the nearby bunker, now a graffiti hotspot and bat habitat, for a unique urban experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hannover Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take the U-Bahn lines 3, 7, or 9 towards Altwarmbüchen/Fasanenkrug/Nordhafen. Get off at the Welfenplatz station. The Kriegerdenkmal is a short walk from the station, located on Welfenplatz. A single ride ticket costs approximately €3.00.

  • Walking

    From Lister Meile, a popular pedestrian zone, head northeast towards Welfenplatz. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. Follow Celler Straße, then turn onto Am Welfenplatz. The Kriegerdenkmal will be on your left as you enter the park.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Hannover Hauptbahnhof to Kriegerdenkmal will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 10 minutes. Simply provide the address Am Welfenplatz 1A, 30161 Hannover to the driver.

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Discover more about Kriegerdenkmal

The Kriegerdenkmal, or War Memorial, in Hannover is a place steeped in history and somber reflection. Located on Am Welfenplatz, in the Vahrenwald-List district, it marks a site of remembrance for the fallen soldiers of past wars. While the physical structure has evolved over time, its significance as a historical landmark remains undiminished. Originally, the Welfenplatz itself was established in the mid-19th century as a military training ground, reflecting Hannover's role as a garrison city. The area was purchased by the Hanoverian War Ministry around 1850 from farmers in the village of List. By 1857, three barracks were constructed on the north side of the square to house soldiers of the Kingdom of Hanover. The Welfenplatz derives its name from the House of Welf, the dynasty that ruled the Kingdom of Hanover during the time of its creation around 1860. However, their reign was short-lived, as they were dethroned by the Prussians in 1866 after their defeat in the Battle of Langensalza. Over the years, Welfenplatz has undergone significant transformations. After World War II, the former barracks were repurposed by the Lower Saxony police. The Infantry Barracks VI, which remained largely undamaged, became the headquarters of the Hanover Police Inspectorate. The stables of the Artillery Barracks XI were used by the Hanover Mounted Police and Dog Handler Squadron. New buildings, including a school and the State Criminal Police Office of Lower Saxony, were constructed on the grounds of the destroyed barracks. The initial impetus for erecting a war memorial came in 1873 during the Sedan celebration of the Turnklubb Hannover. A teacher named Grahn proposed the idea in his speech, leading to the formation of a memorial committee. An artistic competition was held in 1876, won by sculptor Volz from Karlsruhe. The memorial's construction took 11 years due to funding gaps. Finally, on May 10, 1884, the inauguration took place. The 12-meter-high monument, designed in the Neo-Renaissance style, was positioned at the end of Königstraße, near the Eilenriede forest. It featured an allegory of Germania with a victory palm, crowned by two victory goddesses. A mourning Hannovera was placed on the city-side front, flanked by a dying and a triumphant lion. Bronze plaques at the base listed the names of approximately 1,900 fallen soldiers from the Province of Hanover. During World War II, the bronze figures were taken to Hamburg to be melted down for war materials. Although they were recovered in 1949, the city declined to repurchase them, leading the public to believe they had been destroyed. In 1951, the granite base was also demolished. Today, the Kriegerdenkmal exists as a place, a space for reflection within the bustling city. The Welfenplatz itself offers a green oasis amidst the urban landscape, providing a space for leisure and recreation. The bunker at Welfenplatz, a former air-raid shelter from World War II, has become a popular graffiti hotspot and a habitat for reintroduced bats. Visiting the Kriegerdenkmal offers a chance to contemplate the impact of war and the importance of remembering the past. While the original monument is no longer present, the site serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and the enduring need for peace. The surrounding Welfenplatz, with its blend of history and modern-day use, adds to the experience, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Hannover's past.

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