Leer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leer
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View of the town hall and harbor
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| Country | Germany | |
| State | Lower Saxony | |
| District | Leer | |
| Subdivisions | 9 districts | |
| Elevation | 3 m (10 ft) | |
| Population
(2022-12-31)
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| • Total | 35,663 | |
| Time zone | CET/CEST (UTC+1/+2) | |
| Postal codes |
26789
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| Dialling codes | 0491 | |
| Website | www.leer.de | |
Leer is a charming town located in the district of Leer, within the state of Lower Saxony in Germany. It's a place with a rich history and a strong connection to the water, thanks to its harbor. Leer is often called the "Gateway to East Frisia" because of its important location. It's a great example of a German town that blends old traditions with modern life.
Contents
Discovering Leer: A Town by the Water
Leer is a lovely town in the northwest of Germany. It sits where the Leda River meets the Ems River. This special location has made Leer an important place for trade and shipping for hundreds of years. The town is known for its beautiful old buildings and its busy harbor.
What Makes Leer Special?
Leer has a unique charm that comes from its history and its location.
- Historic Buildings: You can see many old houses and buildings in the town center. They tell stories of the past.
- The Harbor: The harbor is a central part of Leer. It's a lively spot where you can watch boats and ships.
- Green Spaces: Even though it's a town, Leer has nice parks and green areas. These are perfect for relaxing or playing.
How Big is Leer?
Leer covers an area of about 70 square kilometers (around 27 square miles). It is divided into 9 different parts, or districts. The town is quite flat, sitting only about 3 meters (10 feet) above sea level.
History of Leer: A Journey Through Time
Leer has a long and interesting history that goes back many centuries. It grew from a small settlement into an important trading town. The rivers Leda and Ems played a big role in its development.
Early Days and Important Forts
Long ago, Leer was a strategic spot. There was once a fort called Feste Leerort at the mouth of the Leda River. This fort was important for protecting the area. It existed from 1453 to 1760. Such forts helped control trade and defend the land.
Famous People from Leer's Past
One famous person linked to Leer is Ubbo Emmius. He was a very smart historian and geographer. He lived around 1605 and contributed a lot to knowledge in his time. People like him helped shape the intellectual life of the region.
Life in Leer: What's it Like?
Life in Leer combines the quiet charm of a smaller town with the conveniences of a modern community. It's a place where people can enjoy history, nature, and local events.
Town Hall and Local Government
The town of Leer is managed by its local government. The main building for this is the City Hall, or Rathaus. The mayor, called the Bürgermeisterin (for a female mayor), leads the town's administration. The current mayor is Beatrix Kuhl. She belongs to the CDU political party. The town hall is where important decisions are made for the community.
Things to Do in Leer
Leer offers different activities for residents and visitors.
- Explore the City Centre: The city center is a great place to walk around. You can find shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
- Visit the Harbor: The harbor is always interesting. You can see boats and learn about Leer's maritime past.
- Enjoy Local Events: Like many towns, Leer has local festivals and events throughout the year. These are fun ways to experience the local culture.
Images for kids
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Remains of the Feste Leerort at the mouth of the Leda into the Ems river, 1453–1760
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Ubbo Emmius around 1605
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City Hall in Leer
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City Centre in Leer
