Pinkenburg

Pinkenburg is a historic structure located where Pinkenburger Street meets Pinkenburger Gang in eastern Hannover. The building displays medieval construction features including thick walls and elevated positioning, characteristic of its original defensive purpose.

The structure originated in 1341 as a watchtower built by Hannover's regional defense system to protect a key frontier zone. Later the building transformed from military use into civilian functions, serving first as a tavern and eventually as a restaurant for centuries.

The name comes from the sound of metal rods struck to signal danger, a noise called pinken in medieval German that gave the structure its identity.

The building sits in a residential neighborhood and is easily reached by nearby streets and paths that allow simple navigation. Visitors should note that parts of it are surrounded by private property, so viewing is restricted to the outside of the structure.

During medieval times, this site served as the only bridge crossing the Schiffgraben canal for several kilometers around it. This singular role made it a critical point for trade and movement in the region.