Happy TravellerWelcome to Delmenhorst, a charming urban district located in Lower Saxony, Germany. With a population of 74,500, Delmenhorst is a hidden gem that is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors. However, this enchanting destination boasts a rich history, fascinating landmarks, and delicious local cuisine that make it a must-visit for any traveler. Join us as we uncover the many treasures of Delmenhorst and reveal why this charming city should be on your bucket list.
Delmenhorst was first mentioned in a charter in 1254, after the Count of Oldenburg, Otto I, bought the place near the river Delme in 1234. A castle to protect the newly founded settlement was established in about 1247. The following count, Otto II, made the castle his residency; Delmenhorst was declared an independent town on 15 July 1371 under Bremens law. After a short period under the governance of the bishop of Bremen from 1421 to 1436 Delmenhorst returned under the custody of Oldenburg. Delmenhorst later was infamous for its robber-baronship under the count Gerhard VI of Oldenburg. Its reign ended in 1482 thanks to a siege laid to the castle under the leadership of the bishop of Münster. Therefore, the town now was under Münster authority until finally count Anton I won back the town as well as the castle in 1547. When the last heir of Anton, Christian, died in 1647, Delmenhorst again fell under Oldenburg custody. As Oldenburg belonged to Danish kings and the Oldenburg regent of that time was a relative of the Danish king, Delmenhorst was thereafter under Danish control. In 1767 Delmenhorst was bought by Tsarina Catherine II, but was given up to new Oldenburg in 1773. In 1777 Delmenhorst was declared a dukedom of Oldenburg. In 1806 a French and Dutch army occupied the territory; Delmenhorst was a part of the French empire under Napoleon from 1811 to 1813.
The landmark of the town is the water tower complex with the adjacent town hall, built from 1910 to 1914 by architect Heinz Stoffregen. Another interesting place is the Burginsel (Castle Island), in which the old castle existed in medieval times. The construction was torn down during the 18th century. Today a park (called the Graft) occupies the grounds of the old castle. The industrial history of the town is presented by the Nordwolle Museum, an Anchor Point of ERIH, The European Route of Industrial Heritage.
Delmenhorst is also home to the Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg (HWK) Institute for Advanced Study, located in the neighborhood of Deichhorst. The HWK promotes collaboration between and among international research scientists and artists, many of whom are housed on the HWK grounds. The public is engaged through a public lecture series. The research areas of focus are energy, earth, brain, and society.
If you’re a foodie, Delmenhorst won’t disappoint. The town is famous for its delicious local cuisine, including traditional German dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and sauerkraut. You can also find international cuisine, including Italian, Turkish, and Chinese restaurants.
Delmenhorst is twinned with several cities, including Allonnes, France, Borisoglebsk, Russia, Eberswalde, Germany, Kolding, Denmark, and Lublin, Poland. The town has also produced several notable people, including Hermann Rieck, a farmer, Arthur Fitger, a painter, and Sarah Connor, a singer.
In conclusion, Delmenhorst is a hidden gem that is waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, fascinating landmarks, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, this charming city is a must-visit for any traveler. So why not add Delmenhorst to your bucket list today?
