Seven stones stand before you. These aren’t just any stones. They are the Sieben Trappen-Steine. Eight to be exact. A slight misnomer perhaps but a captivating story nonetheless.
For centuries these weathered crosses have stood as silent witnesses to history. They first appeared in written records in 1474 described as ‘bey den syven crucen’ seven crosses. Their location marked an ancient legal site. Local courts held sessions here. The stones served as a stark reminder to those present to uphold honesty. Imagine the weight of those words echoing across the centuries.
The Sieben Trappen-Steine weren’t always here. Originally they stood near seven depressions in the earth called Trappen. These might have been sinkholes caused by the Benther salt deposit. In 1857 they were moved. They ended up near a busy road. To protect them they were relocated again in 1978. They now reside beneath the shade of a fifty-year-old linden tree.
Each stone tells a tale. Their varied designs and materials suggest they originated in different places. Each bears a cross on both sides. The stones vary in size. Their height ranges from 098 to 121 meters. Their widths range from 56 to 68 centimeters.
Many legends surround the Sieben Trappen-Steine. One speaks of a dishonest farmer. He swore an oath in court. He claimed he had paid his servant his wages. He vowed to sink into the earth if he was lying. As he left the court he sank with each step. He disappeared entirely after seven steps. The stones were placed at each of his footprints. They serve as a warning to liars.
These stones are more than just a historical landmark. They are a testament to justice honesty and the enduring power of stories. They are a reminder of a time when even stones could speak. The Sieben Trappen-Steine stand as a compelling reminder of Hanover’s rich and layered past. A past that continues to resonate today.