Göttingen calls itself the “city of knowledge” – and for good reason. It is home to one of the most reputable universities in Germany. Its famous alumni include the mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss and the politician Otto von Bismarck. Although Göttingen is proud of its traditions, it has remained a young and hip city.
Facts
118.911 Inhabitants ¹
33.737 Students ²
2 Higher education institutions ²
WELCOME TO GÖTTINGEN
Busy, full of students and conscious of tradition – that would sum up Göttingen in a nutshell. In the winding streets of the historic city centre among half-timbered buildings, students meet in modern pubs or have barbecues together in public parks. This vibrant atmosphere is what makes Göttingen so popular with students. They receive excellent instruction at the higher education institutions and then go out with friends downtown.
Göttingen is a very green city. It contains three large parks, the best-known and most beautiful of which is the . After final exams, students like to go there to hang out and relax in nature. There’s also a lot to see downtown, such as the Göttingen Gänseliesel, the city’s famous landmark. Officially, it’s forbidden to kiss the lady’s statue, but the city makes an exception for newly qualified PhDs.
You can find many restaurants and pubs downtown. Or take a walk through Göttingen’s eastside and marvel at the magnificent old houses there. You should definitely see the Bismarck Tower! Many residents will tell you that you can only call yourself a “Göttinger” once you have climbed the tower.
Interview
EMMA FROM IRELAND
LIVING IN GÖTTINGEN
Student residents of Göttingen know best how to combine academics with pleasure. You’ll often meet students on campus reading books in the sunshine or who, after passing a test, get out the grill and enjoy the rest of the day with their friends.
Cars are taboo with most students. The traffic is mainly comprised of bicycles. Sometimes people have problems finding a parking space for their bike! But then again, it’s the easiest way to get from Point A to Point B. What’s more, public transportation is expensive, which makes cycling an affordable and healthy alternative. Speaking of exercise, the inhabitants of Göttingen love sports. You see them jogging around the city walls, taking bike tours, hiking or skiing in the Harz Mountains.
Culture is a “big deal” in Göttingen – in other words, it’s everywhere. Whether you like jazz or theatre, you’re sure to find it there. The „Deutsches Theater“ offers an extraordinary programme which is very popular among students. The „Göttingen Symphonic Orchestra“ is also visited by many students and offers an English programme. If you like non-mainstream films, then you ought to check out what’s showing at independent cinemas.
After the show, there are plenty of bars and pubs where you can meet up with friends, enjoy music or beer or experience a typical student party.
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