The capella leprosorum extra muros, built between 1250 and 1284 in front of the Steintor, was a place of refuge for people suffering from the plague or leprosy.

It can therefore be described as the oldest building still visible in Hanover, even if it is only a ruin.

In the 16th century, the building became the chapel of the St. Nikolai cemetery, where gravestones from this period can still be found today in a park-like atmosphere.

The English community of Hanover used the chapel until 1914, before it was destroyed in the Second World War.

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Maik Richter

April 22, 2021

Cycling

The ruins of the old Nikolaikapelle date from 1325 and are therefore the oldest "preserved" structure in Hanover. At that time it was outside the city, today it is in the middle of a public square, surrounded by large residential, office and commercial buildings. Definitely an interesting photo opportunity.

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Wandertourist

September 22, 2025

Hiking

The chapel was built in the 13th century outside the former city walls, which were originally built for the sick, along with a hospital. The chapel still survives as a ruin, with beautiful stone slabs attached to the walls. The choir is accessible, but beware: There's a lot of trash around the chapel, especially in the sanctuary, and it reeks of urine and worse. Overall, a special highlight, but in a very unpleasant setting.

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Informations

Elevation 100 m

Weather

Wednesday 11 March

13°C

4°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h

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Location: Lower Saxony, Germany

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