Germany, Hannover

Hanover is the capital of the federal state of Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen), Germany. In addition to being the capital of Lower Saxony, Hanover was the capital of the administrative area Hanover region (Regierungsbezirk Hannover) until Lower Saxony's regions were disbanded at the beginning of 2005.

Hannover, the world's largest Marksmen's Fun Fair, and the Oktoberfest Hannover which is the second largest Oktoberfest in the world.

History

Founded in medieval times on the bank of the river Leine (the original name Honovere may be translated as "high bank", though it is debated), Hanover was a small village of ferrymen and fishermen, and became a comparatively large town in the 13th century. In the 14th century the main churches of Hanover were built, as well as a city wall with three town gates to secure the city.

Economy

The Volkswagen transporter factory at Hannover-Stöcken is the biggest employer in the region. German tire and automobile parts manufacturer Continental AG has its headquarters in Hanover.

Society and Culture

Museums and Galleries
In Hanover there are 24 museums
The Historic Museum describes the history of Hanover, from the mid-age settlement "honovere", over the Residence Town, to the world famous Exhibition Town.

There are also around 30 art galleries in Hanover. For example the Hanover gallery which features an exhibition of the Italian artist Bruno Bruni, and the Nord/LB Art Gallery.

Around 40 theatres are located in Hanover. The Opera House, the Schauspielhaus (Play House), the Ballhofeins, the Ballhofzwei and the Cumbarlandsche Galerie belong to the Lower Saxony State Theatre.

Education

The University of Hanover is the largest funded institution in Hanover for providing higher education to the students from around the world.

Sport

Hannover 96 (nickname Die Roten) is Hanover's football team who play in the Bundesliga top division. Home games are played at the AWD-Arena. Hannover 96 II plays in the third division and the home games are played in the traditional Eilenriedestadium.

Hanover is also one of the Rugby union capitals in Germany. The first German Rugby team was founded in Hanover in 1878.

Transport

Rail
The city's central station, Hannover Hauptbahnhof, is a hub of vital importance in the German high-speed ICE network.
Air
Hanover and its area is served by Hanover/Langenhagen International Airport (HAJ).
Road
Hanover is an important hub in Germany's Autobahn network; the interchange of two major autobahns, the A2 and A7 is at Kreuz Hannover-Ost, at the northeastern edge of the city.