Neustädter Kirche (New Town Church), Hanover

The New Town Church, also known as Saint John's Church, is a significant Lutheran church in Hanover. Constructed between 1666 and 1670, this Baroque structure is notable for being one of the earliest Protestant single-naved churches in Lower Saxony, designed primarily for delivering sermons, a key element in Lutheran worship. Notably, the church is the final resting place of the renowned mathematician and philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, as well as the military leader Carl August von Alten.

Architecturally, the church exemplifies an early Baroque style, drawing inspiration from classical antiquity. Its layout includes a long, spacious main hall ending in a slightly narrower chancel to the east, and features a large organ balcony at the western end and additional smaller balconies along its sides. Much of its rich interior decor, unfortunately, was lost during World War II.

The church is also celebrated for its musical contributions, particularly through the Saint John's chorale, which performs both in services and concerts. It's been a host for various significant events, including the Expo 2000 and the German Evangelical Church Assembly. In a unique collaboration with the Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, a special organ was installed in 1998-2001. This organ, situated on the north balcony, is designed based on Spanish Baroque principles, making it ideal for early Baroque music, yet it doesn't replicate any specific historical instrument.