Göttingen: the centre of southern Niedersachsen – university town with tradition, charm and top quality of life. Visitors especially love the esprit of the historic Old Town: window shopping in the pedestrian area, enjoying the southern atmosphere, and relaxing in the many street cafes – according to the motto “seeing and be seen”.
The traces of the town’s history stretch back over more than 1000 years and are on show everywhere. The Old Town surrounded by an almost completely preserved rampart prides itself on its impressive churches, imposing university buildings, and numerous restored half-timbered houses. Göttingen’s iconic emblem is the Gänseliesel statue in the market fountain in front of the Old Town Hall. This art nouveau statue features a girl herding geese. It is a tradition that all new doctoral graduates from the University kiss the cheeks of the statue after passing their examinations. This makes her „the most kissed girl in the world“.
The Georg-August University was founded in 1734 and today has 14 faculties with 30,000 students. The university boasts many famous scientists amongst its alumni including more than 40 Nobel laureates. The city is also home to many research institutes, Max Planck Institutes and internationally active companies.
Göttingen boasts a huge culture programme: its theatres, orchestra, museums and major events attract visitors from far and wide. Tourists on city breaks appreciate the excellent transport connections and the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the lively town, whose streets are full of students and international visitors.
Foto: Public Relation, University of Göttingen
Further Information: Tourist Information Göttingen
