The Göttingen Seven

The Göttingen Seven memorial features a six-meter high gate with one side ajar and nine bronze figures of university professors who resisted the royal decree. The figures display different postures and facial expressions that convey their inner stance toward the situation.

In 1837, seven university lecturers refused to swear allegiance to the new King Ernest Augustus and were dismissed as a result. Some were forced to leave Hannover, making the event a turning point for academic freedom in Germany.

The memorial represents scholars who stood by their principles, marking a moment that still resonates today. The way the figures are positioned, some outside the gate, tells a story of resistance and personal courage in the everyday world.

The memorial sits in its own square in the city center and is easily accessible from all sides. Information plaques nearby explain the history and help visitors understand the significance of each figure.

The bronze figures were not modeled by artist Floriano Bodini based on historical photographs of the original professors, but rather after people from his personal circles. This gives the sculptures an unexpected closeness and makes the memorial less a historical depiction than a creative interpretation of a significant moment.

Location: Mitte

Inception: 1990s

Creator: Floriano Bodini

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Made from material: bronze

GPS coordinates: 52.36972,9.73409

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:44