Seven thousand four hundred and forty-two souls. That’s how many people called Auf der Horst home in 2018. Imagine a place that didn’t exist a century ago. Then picture Auf der Horst.
Auf der Horst is a fascinating district. It’s the most densely populated part of Garbsen near Hanover. Its history began not with ancient castles or grand churches but with a mill. This mill moved to Bärenhof Street around 1900. It was demolished in 1966. Only a few decades before Auf der Horst exploded onto the map.
The Second World War devastated Hanover. Housing was desperately needed. Planners looked beyond the city walls to Auf der Horst. They envisioned a massive housing project. A project for ten thousand people. The ambitious project started in 1963. It was a partnership between Hanover and nearby municipalities. This massive undertaking resulted in a new community.
Construction started in 1963. The first residents moved in by December 1964. This was incredibly fast. Prefabricated concrete parts sped up the building process. Three construction companies built 1714 apartments. They also built 443 houses including bungalows and two-story townhouses. All had flat roofs.
Auf der Horst transformed from empty farmland to a vibrant community almost overnight. This rapid growth wasn’t without its challenges. The district faced social issues in the 1990s. There was high unemployment. Crime was also a problem. But recent years have seen improvements. Renovations and community projects rejuvenated the area. Auf der Horst is now a multicultural district. It attracts students from the nearby University of Hanover’s engineering campus.
The Planetencenter shopping mall opened in 1973. It was a pioneering covered shopping center. A newer bigger mall replaced it in 2015. A local swimming pool was renovated in 2006. The city has invested in the area and Auf der Horst has greatly benefited.
Auf der Horst’s story isn’t just about concrete and construction. It’s a testament to human resilience. It’s a symbol of how a community can overcome challenges. It shows how a place built from scratch can become a lively place to live. Auf der Horst stands today. A district with a unique and remarkable history.