UNESCO World Heritage

Important cultural and natural heritage sites in Niedersachsen

UNESCO protects outstanding testaments to the history of humankind. Niedersachsen is home to four of these unique World Heritage Sites.

In addition to the Wadden Sea, a natural World Heritage Site, the Fagus Factory in Alfeld is also recognised as a UNESCO cultural heritage site. This Bauhaus-style factory complex was the first major project by the young architect Walter Gropius. In St Mary’s Cathedral in Hildesheim, visitors can admire the impressive bronze Bernward Doors and the Christ Column, both part of the cathedral’s treasure. St Michael’s Church, with its painted wooden ceiling depicting the family tree of Jesus, is also designated as World Heritage. The splendour of past centuries can also be experienced in Goslar. This medieval town in the Harz Mountains region was once one of the most important trading hubs and centres of imperial power in Germany. Today, Goslar’s historic Old Town is a World Heritage Site along with the former Rammelsberg Mine and the Upper Harz Water Management System.

Model regions for sustainable development

UNESCO biosphere reserve

Niedersachsen is also home to two UNESCO biosphere reserves. The Niedersachsen Elbe Valley forms part of the cross-state UNESCO Elbe River Landscape biosphere reserve. The Niedersachsen Wadden Sea National Park is likewise designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. These extensive regions serve as model areas for sustainable development.

Drohnenaufnahme der Landschaft an der Elbe — CC-BY TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, CMR / Isabela Pacini

Nationalpark Niedersächsisches Wattenmeer — CC0 Francesco Carovillano

Traditions, customs, music, dance and crafts

Intangible cultural heritage

UNESCO also recognises cultural traditions in Niedersachsen – such as customs, music, dance and crafts passed down through generations – as intangible cultural heritage.

Among the practices under protection is the traditional craft of blue printing, still preserved by a handful of workshops, such as those in Einbeck. Hamelin is world-famous for the legend of the Pied Piper and Lingen has celebrated its Kivelingsfest (a medieval festival honouring the town’s historical defenders) since the Middle Ages. Niedersachsen also offers plenty for music lovers: the state capital, Hanover, proudly bears the title of UNESCO City of Music.