Westerstede

Westerstede is a town in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is the administrative seat of the Ammerland district and serves as its capital. The town lies in the northwestern part of the state, in the Ammerland region known for its horticulture and market gardening.

Historically, Westerstede has roots dating to the medieval period. Its historic town center features timber-framed houses and several monuments, reflecting its development as a regional trading and administrative center. The surrounding countryside is characterized by flat, fertile farmland, canals, and green spaces that support agriculture and floriculture.

One of Westerstede’s leading attractions is the Rhododendron Park Ammerland, a large garden complex devoted to rhododendrons and azaleas. The park, together with other parks and botanical areas in the area, draws visitors in the spring and summer and forms a focal point of local tourism. The town also hosts cultural events and provides museums, theaters, and galleries that reflect regional heritage and contemporary culture.

Economy in Westerstede is centered on services, agriculture, and horticulture-related activities, with tourism playing a supporting role due to the gardens and nearby natural landscapes. The town has road and rail connections that link it to larger centers in the region, complemented by regional bus services.

Governance is provided by a mayor and a town council. Westerstede participates in cooperative and cultural exchanges with partner towns in Europe, reflecting its role as a local hub within the Ammerland district.