Osterode am Harz

Osterode am Harz is a town in the Göttingen district of Lower Saxony, positioned partly at the southwestern edge of the Harz range with the Söse River running through it. The town center shows several streets lined with historic half-timbered buildings, while the Kornmarkt serves as the main square surrounded by public structures.

The settlement received its town charter during the 13th century and later developed into a mining center for silver and copper in the region. Joining the Hanseatic League promoted trade and connected the town with other merchant centers across northern Germany.

The name reflects the location at the eastern edge of the Harz range, while the old town today shows timber buildings from different centuries common to this part of Lower Saxony. Visitors notice the exposed wooden beams and decorated panels that define the streetscape and mark this as a stop along the German Timber-Frame Road.

The Kornmarkt offers a starting point for exploring the town center and is surrounded by shops and cafes reachable within a few minutes on foot. The Ritterhaus museum complex stands near the center and offers insight into local town history without long walks.

Three long-distance hiking routes start directly in town and lead walkers through different parts of the Harz, making this a junction for long-distance hikers. The Harzer-Hexen-Stieg, Harzer BaudenSteig, and Harzer Försterstieg can each be tackled in multi-day stages from here.