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| Basic Information | |
| Area: | 204.01 km² |
| Population: | 515,772 source (2005) |
| Population density: | 2528/km² |
| Elevation: | 55 m |
| Postal codes: | 30001 - 30669 |
| Area code: | 0511 |
| Website: | www.hannover.de |
| Mayor: | Dr Herbert Schmalstieg |
The town was founded in medieval times on the bank of the river Leine (the original name Honovere may be translated as "high bank", though it is debated). It was a small village of ferrymen and fishermen, which became a comparatively large town in the 13th century. In the 14th century the main churches of Hanover were built, as well as a city wall with three town gates to secure the city.
In 1636 the Duke of Calenberg decided to move his residence to Hanover. His duchy was afterwards known as the Duchy of Hanover (see: House of Hanover). His descendants would later become kings of Great Britain (after 1800, kings of the United Kingdom); the first of them was George I, who ascended to the British throne in 1714. Three kings of Great Britain or the United Kingdom were at the same time Electoral Princes of Hanover.
During the Seven Years' War on July 26, 1757 the Battle of Hastenbeck took place. The French army defeated the Hanoverian Army of Observation, leading to the occupation of Hanover.
