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Hanau GermanyCity of fairy tales, gardens, castles & a spaHanau Germany is famous for being the birthplace of the Grimm brothers, the publishers of the well-loved fairy tales. Hanau's location on the junction of the rivers Main and Kinzig invites you to enjoy some beautiful river scenery. The city is about 25 km east of Frankfurt, provides very good public transport and is well connected to the main Autobahnen (motor-ways) in the Rhine-Main area. As a mainly industrial city, Hanau certainly has some "ugly" areas. However, this should not hold you off to explore the scenic parts of my home town. Let me show you the hidden treasures of Hanau Germany. 
German house of goldsmiths (Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus),
former town hall of Hanau Quick Facts about Hanau Germany
Top of Hanau Germany
History of Hanau GermanyHanau's long history could fill a book. Below I have listed the most significant events which have influenced appearance and life in Hanau until today.
Remnant of the medieval fortification 
Kanzleigebäude (1691) / Library 
Hanau Palace, 1632 Source: Wikipedia public domain Hanau-born elector Wilhelm II. ordered the demolition of the oldest medieval part of the palace 1829/30, despite its historic significance. Prussia annexed the electorate Hesse in 1866, therefore the palais in Hanau was not needed anymore as a residence of noble families. The city of Hanau bought the palace in 1890. The different buildings were turned into homes and government offices. For some time in the 20th century the mayor of Hanau had his residence in one of the buildings. 
Dutch-Walloon Church Hanau The Dutch-Walloon double-church was built early in the 17th century. The curch was destroyed in 1945, only the smaller Dutch part was rebuild. The ruins of the Walloon part remained as a memorial. During the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) Hanau was a base for the Swedish Army under the Scottish General Ramsay. 1635 imperial troops under General Lamboy besieged Hanau for 9 months, the situation in the city was terrible. Finally, Wilhelm V. of Hesse Kassel, an ally of the Swedish king Gustav II Adolf, freed the besieged city. Since then, citizens of Hanau held an annual church service to commemorate the freedom, which over the years lead to the annual Lamboyfest festival. Hanau was nearly totally destroyed during WW II. After a British air strike on 19th March 1945 only seven houses remained in the city centre. The old town lost its medieval appearance. Sadly, this happened only 10 days before American troops invaded Hanau, and the war came to its end. An annual service at the main cemetery on the 19th March commemorates those who lost their lives on that day. The quick reconstruction of houses soon after the war didn't care for prettiness and rehabilitation of historic ruins. The city needed living space badly. Only a few old buildings were reconstructed in the 50s and 60s. Americans in Hanau GermanyUS American troops came as occupying forces in 1945. They soon helped to develop the non-existent infrastructure and removed debris in the destroyed city.American GIs brought sweets and chocolates for the children, shared their supplies and helped whenever they could in those hard years after the war. Teenager were impressed by the American Swing, Jazz and Rock'n Roll music, which was mostly disapproved by their parents. The American Way of Life influenzed the youth in the 50s and 60s, not only in Hanau. A lively music scene with bars and live music developed in Hanau at that time. The American troops left Hanau in 2008, the end of an area. An exhibition in 2006 (60 years Americans in Hanau) and the recent movie Rollover Hanau remind on times when Hanau was the party metropolis of Hesse, and on the German-American friendship in general. I found this video on You Tube which shows the great affection by an Amercian for my home town. As you can read below, many Americans who were stationed at Hanau, have still fond memories. Top of Hanau Germany
Attractions in Hanau GermanyWilhemsbad is a picturesque spa complex in the suburb Kesselstadt. Named after his creator, crown prince and Count Wilhelm IV., the complex was built for the noble society. Situated in a large English-style garden, many features for entertainment were added: a huge horse-drawn carousel, a devils bridge and a pyramid.Also in the park is an island within a small dammed creek. Here rises a pseudo-medieval castle. It was built with the appearance of a ruin which, but housed an elegant apartment for the count. Walk along the avenue with grand old buildings, pavilions and enjoy the magnificent park. The park is open daily, no admission. Guided tours for groups by appointment. Tours of the castle (Crown Prince's rooms) are available from April-October: Sat 2pm, 3pm and 4pm; Sun every hour from 11am to 4pm. Arrangements for guided group tours can be made all year round. 
Schloss Philippsruhe This 18th century baroque palace is a brilliant building complex located on the river Main in Kesselstadt. On the ground floor is the official wedding hall for citizen of Hanau. Aren't we lucky to be able to marry in a castle? The white hall (Weisser Saal) in the left wing of the palace is a restaurant where you can dine like a king. The huge terrace overlooking the river is open in summer and a beautiful place to relax. The castle park is a wonderful place for a leisurely walk, and the kids will have their fun as well. The Philippsruher Allee, the most beautiful boulevard in Hanau, leads from the Westbahnhof (train station west) along the river Main to the palace. 
Market Square Old Town The Altstädter Markt was the central place of the old town. The beautiful half-timbered house was the town hall of Hanau which recieved Stadtrechte (city rights) in 1303. The former town hall is now the Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus (German House of Goldsmiths). Go inside to see exhibitons and learn about the gold and silversmiths' art in Germany. Goldschmiedehaus is open daily, except Mondays, from 10am to 5 pm. Admission is €2.50 for adults. As you walk a little bit further you come to the true heart of old Hanau. The Stadthalle (former stables), now integrated into the the modern Congress Park Hanau, and the opposite Stadtbücherei (library) building were parts of the old city palace complex which stood in the Schlosspark (castle garden). The beautiful Marienkirche (St. Mary's church) was first mentioned in the 14th century. 
Neustädter Rathaus Don't get confused, Hanau Germany is really one city these days. However, until 1821 two cities excisted with their own fortification walls and separate city councils. The baroque Neustädter Rathaus (town hall of the new town) was built in the 18th century on the market square. In front of the red brick building is the Brothers Grimm memorial that commemorates the famous sons of Hanau. The Marktplatz (market place) is the heart of Hanau. The place is surrounded by department stores and pedestrian malls. Relax in a cafe, and enjoy life. 
Arctic Wolf The wildlife park Alte Fasanerie is an attraction for all animal friends, kids and adults alike. The huge park features woodlands, meadowns, and open spaces. Huge enclosures give animals like deer, bisons, wolves, wild boars and elks space to roam. Smaller enclosurers are home to badgers, racoons, foxes and ferrets. In the bird aviaries the colourful pheasants are my personal favourites, but the snow owls look also beautiful. On weekends (only in dry weather) you can drive in a covered carriage throughout the park. Pony rides are offered for children. One of the most fascinating attraction is the monthly wolves howling night at full moon. Ayla, Scott & Khan are three arctic wolves, they were hand raised by Dr Marion Ebel, the biologist who howls with the wolves. The Alte Fasanerie is in Hanau-Kleinauheim, and really worth a visit. Top of Hanau Germany
Museums in Hanau Germany
Brothers Grimm fairy tales Explore the history of European dolls from antique time to the 21th century. The museum is a dream for everyone interested in dolls and toys. The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 12 pm, and 2 pm to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission: adults €2.50, children €0.50, families €5.00. Historisches Museum Schloss Philippsruhe (Historical museum) The palace is home of the historical museum, including an unique paper toy theatre museum. See fayences, silver and cast iron art, explore documents of Hanau's history. One room is devoted to the Brothers Grimm, with special exhibitions every now and then. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 6 pm. Admission: €2.50 adults, €4.00 for families. Access to the museum cafe is free. Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus (German House of Goldsmiths) see details in the section about the old town above. Interesting museums in Hanau's suburbs include the Frühhistorisches Museum (Prehistoric Museum) in the old castle in Steinheim and the museum in Grossauheim. Under the concept living museums all museums offer workshops for children and adults. You can even celebrate your kid's birthday in a museum. If you want to explore all museums in Hanau on a rainy day, there is a special day ticket for €5.00 available. Top of Hanau Germany
Events in Hanau Germany
Amphitheatre Philippsruhe castle Soak up the mystery and fairy tales of your childhood. Step back into the time when whiches, princesses and heroes were part of your real world. Children and adults love the magic atmoshere of the fairy tales. The Brothers Grimm festival season 2010 includes "Snow White", "The devil with the three golden hairs" and "Cendrillon, or The Glass Slipper" from the collection of fairy tales by Charles Perrault. The festival takes place in the amphitheatre in the park of Schloss Philippsruhe. Thanks to the covered theatre you don't need to worry about rain or sunshine. Tickets cost from €9 to €20 depending on the play, seat and whether or not you book in advance. The 2010 festival season begins on 21st May and ends on 25th July. Read more about Hanau's famous sons, the Brothers Grimm. The Love Family Park is the ultimative open-air event for techno music fans. 2010 sees the 15th birthday of this annual music festival on the Mainwiesen in Hanau. The Love Family Park 2010 features superstar Sven Väth amongst other well-known DJs. Enjoy summer, sunshine and music all day long, and the fantastic fireworks at the end of the party. Love Family Park, 4th July 2010, Mainwiesen Hanau, Tickets from €33. The City of Hanau helds a summer events series called "märchenhafter Sommer" (fabulous summer) with concerts, festivals and much more. Just ask at the tourist information centre what is on when you are in Hanau. Lamboyfest is a traditional festival on a weekend around the 13th Juni, it commemorates the victory over general Lamboy who besieged Hanau for 9 months. Lamboyfest 2010 is from 11th to 13th Juni in the streets of the old town. As usual there is a large cultural program with live musik (6 stages), a historical market and good food and drinks provided by local associations and restaurants. Click her to see some photos and impressions of Lamboyfest 2010. As usual, it was an exciting event. Perhaps you want to stay in Hanau for the festival next year? 
Farmers market From the end of November the farmers market has to move to the Freiheitsplatz, because the beautiful Hanau Christmas market inspires people for the coming Christmas season. More than 70 stalls offer Christmas ornaments, candles, toys, arts and crafts, and, of course various foods and hot and cold drinks. Sip a glass of Glühwein (mulled wine) to heat you up, and enjoy a wonderful Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas market is open daily from 11am to 9pm until 22th December. 
Christmas market 2010 
Christmas gifts Top of Hanau Germany
How to get to Hanau Germany?
Bus in Hanau InterCityExpress trains from Berlin, Munich and other German cities stop frequently in Hanau, so getting here by train is quite easy. If you are travelling around Germany on a German railpass, don't miss to stop in my home town for a visit :). Once you are in Hanau, there is a good network of buses to let you travel around the city and the suburbs. Almost all highlights are only a short walking distance from a bus stop. The Hanauer bus company is member of the RMV, the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund. So if you buy a single train ticket from say Frankfurt to Hanau, you can use the bus from the train station in Hanau to the city with the same ticket. If you plan a sightseeing tour in Hanau all day, it is a good idea to get a day ticket for €3.70 which is valid all day for buses in Hanau and to the suburbs. Want to visit Frankfurt and its attractions from Hanau? You can take regional trains from Hanau to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, or the S-Bahn which stops at several points within Frankfurt. Top of Hanau Germany
Map of Hanau GermanyYou see Hanau is a fairly green city, and it is surrounded by woods and forests.Right-click on the "View Hanau Germany in a larger map" and open the map in a new browser tab or window. Continue to read my Hanau guide, and explore the places on the map. View Hanau Germany in a larger map Some versions of Internet Explorer don't display maps properly. If you don't see the map, please try Firefox or any other browser. I apologise for any inconvenience. Top of Hanau Germany
Hanau HotelsUse the search box below to find information about accommodation in Hanau.Tourist Information Centre in Hanau GermanyThe tourist information centre offers info about festivals, markets and special events. Pick up brochures and ask for guided tours. They also sell nice Hanau related souvenirs and post cards. The location is in the city centre,Am Markt 14-18 63450 Hanau, Tel: 06181 - 295 950, Fax: 06181 - 295959 Enjoy Hanau Germany! Have a great story about Hanau?
Have you been in Hanau with the Army, or as a traveller? Read about other visitor's Hanau impressions
When I was small I lived on the post in Hanau
1954 to 1957 hometown - Buffalo NY-Army in Hanau
Hanau - home sweet home I grew up in Hanau and moved to the states in 2000. Grossauheim was the place to be! Not only was the Rod N gun Club only minutes from my house but also ...
Hanau - My Home Also
Stationed in Hanau 1967 to 1969
Stationed in Hanau '79 - '83 Those four years in Hanau, in Germany, were the best years of my military career. Every weekend there were volksmarches, farmer's markets, castles to ... Loved serving in Hanau I was stationed in Hanau Germany from April 1969 until June 1970 and loved the town and the Country. The people were so nice and I met and made friends ... It is Christmas time... :) but any time of the season, Hanau is magic to me! I was stationed in Pioneer Kaserne 1967-1968. All the free time I had I would catch a train and see ... army engineer 88-91 I lived in Hanau, FRG 88-91, loved spending time at the marketplatz and the swimbad on Lamboystrasse. I lived on pioneer kaserne and frequented the Rod ... Born in Hanau I am the American(really German-American) who created the video of Hanau. As noted on the video, it is where I was born in 1964. I was also given up for ...
New Years Eve Hanau
Always tried to attend the New Years Eve parties while stationed at Pioneer.
Hanau - Where is the beer?
Stationed in Hanau in 1955-1957. Still in contact with old army buddies. Yorkoff Kaserne Hanau I was an ambulance driver for the 557 th amb co from 68-70 at yorkoff kaserne and moved my bride into a small apartment on Windecker Strasse three weeks ... Explore more Hanau pages & fascinating German cities:
Schloss Philippsruhe | Lamboyfest | Grimm Brothers | Bamberg | Frankfurt | Hessen | Travel Tips Photos right column: © www.germany-insider-facts.com |
Subscribe to our Newsletter News and Tips from Germany  Brothers Grimm City
 Fountain and Town Hall
  Picturesque Kesselstadt
 Weekly farmer's market
 Friedenskirche
 International Hanau
 Grimm brothers monument
 Marienkirche
 Frankfurter Tor
Hanau Weather
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