Day 23: Hannover Altstadt

"To walk through the ruined cities of Germany is to feel an actual doubt about the continuity of civilization" - George Orwell

Project 365: #23

I cannot even begin to imagine how horrific these devastated cities must have looked. Apparently the majority of Hannover was destroyed, with pockets of houses remaining intact after WWII. Some have been left as ruins as a memorial and constant reminder of the past horrors, in the hope that history is never repeated. This is the tower of the Aegidienkirche, just a shell remains.

 It is nice to walk around and see the mix of old and new, teaching us that we can build on devastated foundations and develop a promising future. It also teaches us not to hold on to material things, but cherish the here and now. The juxtaposition of old and new is also a reminder, not to repeat past mistakes.

 These buildings and streets are so beautiful, with a charm and character of their own. I wonder how many look up and are amazed by the beautiful architecture and design? When George Orwell witnessed the utter devastation of not only  cities, but also societies, I am sure that he NEVER imagined just how  Germany would rebuild itself, and prove its resilience to the world! I am privileged to have experienced and witnessed this.