Burgdorf

Burgdorf lies east of Hanover and takes its name from a fortified seat recorded in the thirteenth century. After conflict involving the bishopric of Hildesheim, it came to the Welf dukes of Lüneburg. In 1433 Duke Otto rebuilt the castle and strengthened the settlement with a rampart, moats and three gates. These works gave Burgdorf the form of a small fortified town. Fires destroyed much of it in 1658 and again in 1809, but on each occasion its inhabitants rebuilt their homes.