Göttingen

　　Göttingen is a traditional university city situated in the southeastern part of Lower Saxony, Germany, and is the fifth-largest city in the state. It is well known for its educational and research institutions. The city is located near the geographic center of Germany and is a historic university town, where a creative atmosphere and a unique ambiance set the tone.

　　Gothic churches, magnificent Renaissance-era building facades, and unforgettable timber-framed architecture, along with countless historical landmarks from various eras, make Göttingen richly diverse and vibrantly colorful. The double-winged altar from 1402 in St. Jacobi Church, the Old Town Hall, and the Town Hall extension built in the late 19th century together paint a unique picture of Göttingen. The most important ornament of the city—and also its symbol—is the Goose Girl statue, a Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) bronze figure beloved by all “freshly minted” PhDs, who traditionally kiss the Goose Girl’s cheek on the day they receive their degree after defending their dissertation. If you prefer a quieter experience, you can visit the Humanities Museum or other significant city museums to explore the long history of this extraordinary city.

　　Göttingen’s cultural, historical, and economic activities are also richly varied and fascinating. A wide range of entertaining events keep visitors enthralled, such as the international Handel Festival, concerts by the Göttingen Symphony Orchestra, and the annual “Golden Autumn Culture Festival.”

　　Göttingen Reason to Visit: The fifth-largest city in Lower Saxony Continent: Europe Country/Region: Germany Province/State: Lower Saxony City: Göttingen