Uelzen

Uelzen is a town in Lower Saxony, Germany, located in the district of Uelzen. The town lies on the river Ilmenau, approximately 60 kilometers southeast of Hamburg and 50 kilometers north of Celle. Uelzen is known for its picturesque Old Town, which features several well-preserved half-timbered houses and a historic market square.

The origins of Uelzen can be traced back to the 13th century when it was granted town privileges. Over the centuries, it developed as a regional trading center. A significant landmark is the St. Mary's Church, a large Brick Gothic hall church dating back to the 14th century. Another notable structure is the historic town hall, also from the medieval period.

Economically, Uelzen has a mixed industrial base, with companies involved in food processing, mechanical engineering, and logistics. The town also benefits from its position as a transport hub, with good rail and road connections. Agriculture plays a role in the surrounding rural areas.

Uelzen is also recognized for its unique artistic flair, particularly due to the Hundertwasser Station. This train station was redesigned by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and is a prominent example of his distinctive architectural style, characterized by organic forms and vibrant colors. The town offers recreational opportunities along the Ilmenau river and in the nearby Lüneburg Heath Nature Park.