Ever wondered where locals flock to cool off in Hannover? The answer is the Annabad. Right here in front of us stands a beloved open-air swimming pool. It is more than just a place to swim. It’s a historic landmark and a community hub.
The Annabad has a fascinating story. It officially opened on June 16 1937. The mayor of the time, Arthur Menge, presided over the ceremony. Initially, it was named Volksbad Kleefeld. But the public quickly embraced the unofficial name Annabad.
During the post-war years, from 1945 to 1954, the British occupation forces used the Annabad. It was exclusively for their personnel. In 1954, it was finally reopened to the public.
In 1969, a significant upgrade arrived. The Annabad got a swimming pool heating system. A year later in 1970, the city officially renamed it Kleefelder Bad. Yet, the name Annabad remained far more popular.
By 1995, the Annabad had fallen into disrepair. A citizens’ initiative stepped in to prevent its closure. The following year, in 1996, the city handed over the management. The Polizei-Sportverein Hannover took charge. In 2004, the Annabad earned another distinction. It was added to the list of protected historical monuments.
The Annabad continues to evolve. In 2007, it connected to the municipal district heating network. This was an environmentally friendly move. Then in 2011, a large donation led to extensions. These extensions were made to the changing room building. The swimming section of the police sports club set up club rooms here.
Let’s talk about the pools. The main pool measures 50 by 21 meters. It includes 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards. There are also two non-swimmer pools. They measure 20 by 21 meters and 30 by 20 meters. A splash pool is available for the little ones. The swimming pool, smaller non-swimmer pool, and splash pool are heated to at least 22°C. The larger non-swimmer pool remains unheated.
Beyond the pools, the Annabad offers much more. The grounds cover approximately 50000 square meters. There are sunbathing areas and a section with old trees. You will also find three beach volleyball courts. A small lawn football pitch and a beach soccer field are also available. Table tennis tables, a sandbox, climbing frames, and swings provide recreation. For refreshments, a kiosk offers snacks and a terrace.
The Annabad is known for opening early. The Polizei-Sportverein Hannover ensures it’s the first open-air pool in the city to open each year. In 2019, it opened on April 26. That was earlier than ever before. It also stays open the longest. In 2018, during a period of drought and heat, it remained open until October 14.
The Annabad is a popular destination. In 2018, it welcomed 236400 visitors. It was the most frequented of the city’s seven public open-air pools. On June 30 2019, it set a daily record with 11500 visitors.
Various events take place here. These include water polo matches. They are held by the Polizei-Sportverein Hannover. Youth camps are organized by different club divisions. Each September, the police of Lower Saxony hold their internal competitions. These “Swim and Run” events attract over 1000 participants. Since 2010, the network of the Hannover Medical School has organized a sponsored swim. It benefits seriously ill children.
The Annabad is more than a swimming pool. It’s a place where memories are made. It’s a place where the community comes together. It’s a place with a rich history. Take a moment to appreciate this Hanoverian treasure.