From September 3rd to 5th, Hanover (German: Hannover) hosted the 102nd Grand Chapitre of Germany. Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Heinrich of Hannover, participants enjoyed four spectacular days which demonstrated in impressive fashion how tradition, culture and gastronomy can come together at the highest level.

The festivities began on Thursday evening with the “Soirée de Bienvenue” at the historic Burg Königsworth. In an elegant setting, the Welcome Dinner provided the perfect opportunity to renew old friendships, make new contacts and look forward to the days ahead. The special atmosphere of this historic venue gave the evening both a suitably dignified and warmly welcoming character.

The Hannoversche Bruchmeister, traditional representatives of Hanover’s shooting festival heritage, provided a fascinating insight into local traditions and enriched the evening with their historic presence. Another highlight was a presentation of typical Lower Saxon costumes and dances. Dressed in colourful traditional attire, the dancers performed traditional dances, giving the international guests a vivid insight into the regional culture and customs of Lower Saxony.

Music, costume and dance created a joyful yet authentic atmosphere, making the Welcome Dinner a successful celebration of Hanover’s history, regional identity and genuine hospitality.

Friday was devoted to discovering Hanover and the cultural diversity of the surrounding region. Participants could choose from a variety of excursions offering fascinating insights into the area.

Particularly impressive was the opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Staatsoper Hannover, gaining access to areas normally hidden from the public. A city tour in a lovingly restored vintage bus took guests to some of the most beautiful sights of the Lower Saxon capital, bringing the city’s history to life in a charming way.

The visit to Schloss Derneburg was equally fascinating, with its historic architecture combined with modern art creating a unique atmosphere and leaving a lasting impression.

Another excursion took participants to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hildesheim, where they were able to experience its remarkable cultural heritage at first hand. The visit centred on the famous Hildesheim Cathedral and the Cathedral Museum, whose outstanding collection of works of art offered a fascinating insight into more than 1,000 years of the history of the diocese and the region’s tradition of sacred art. The combination of architecture, art and history made this a particularly memorable cultural experience.

The varied excursion programme demonstrated the many facets of Hanover and Lower Saxony - from royal history and significant architecture to art and culture.

On Friday evening, participants dispersed for the traditional “Dîners Amicaux”, hosted at various establishments operated by Chaîne members. Gallo Nero, Restaurant Schorse, Titus and The Living showcased the diversity and quality of Hanover’s gastronomic scene. Each venue added its own distinctive character, delighting guests with creativity, technical precision and warm hospitality, accompanied by a generous spirit of joie de vivre and music – entirely in keeping with the values of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.

Saturday began with one of the most ceremonial moments of the Grand Chapitre: the Induction Ceremony at the Staatsoper Hannover. The magnificent surroundings provided an exceptionally elegant setting for the ceremony.

A particularly fascinating historical touch was the sword used during the ceremony. For the occasion, His Royal Highness Prince Heinrich of Hannover generously made available, on loan from the Royal House, the sword of the Elector of Hannover, Georg Ludwig - the future King George I of Great Britain and Ireland. This extraordinary gesture underlined the historic connection of the House of Hannover and gave the ceremony a unique sense of symbolism.

The glittering highlight of the Grand Chapitre came on Saturday evening with the Grand Gala Dinner in the Galerie Building of the Royal Palace of Herrenhausen.

The unique setting and elegant atmosphere are difficult to capture in words. An exquisite menu prepared by Michelin 2-star chef Benjamin Gallein together with his colleagues Maik Neumann and Christoph Murlowski, combined with outstanding service, made the evening an unforgettable experience.

The wonderful wines and Champagne, generously sponsored by Bentley, were presented by Sommeliers Luise Volkert and Jonas Gohlke.

The evening was hosted by Sophie Mühlmann, a well-known personality in northern Germany, together with the world-renowned polymath Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz.

Musical entertainment was provided by two outstanding opera singers from the Staatsoper Hannover, Viola Westhues and Leon-Maurice Teichert, accompanied by Demian Ewig on the concert grand piano.

Bringing the Gala evening to a lively conclusion were two young stars from Hamburg, Merito and Rogerio Antonio of the Elbphilharmonie. Performing on two Steinway concert grand pianos generously provided by the Hanover piano house Döll, they delighted guests with virtuoso Boogie-Woogie performances.

A spectacular surprise came during the dinner when the guests were invited outside to witness an impressive fireworks display which transformed the sky above Herrenhausen into a breathtaking sea of colour.

With a glass of Champagne in hand, guests had the privilege of witnessing the 34th International Fireworks Competition 2026. This emotional moment was received with enormous enthusiasm by the participants and was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the entire weekend.

A very special word of thanks is due to Maître Restaurateur Martina Franzmeier, who took overall responsibility for the Grand Gala Dinner with tremendous personal commitment and exceptional organisational talent.

From organising and coordinating the temporary kitchen to planning and managing the service, a substantial part of the overall organisation rested in her hands. With enormous dedication, meticulous attention to detail and an unfailing ability to anticipate the many challenges - both large and small - taking place behind the scenes, she ensured that the evening became a thoroughly successful and unforgettable experience for the guests.

For this outstanding achievement, and for the many hours devoted to preparing and delivering the event, Martina deserves our very special thanks and our highest appreciation.

As the principal sponsor of the Gala evening, Bentley Hannover made a significant contribution to the exclusive character of the event. Its generous support further underlined the high standards and prestige of the Grand Chapitre.

The 102nd Grand Chapitre of Germany in Hanover impressed through its outstanding organisation, unique venues, meticulous attention to detail and a programme which brought together culture, history and gastronomy in an especially memorable way.

The patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Heinrich of Hannover added an additional sense of distinction and glamour to the event, while highlighting the importance of this Grand Chapitre within the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.

Participants returned home with countless unforgettable memories, inspiring encounters and outstanding culinary experiences. Hanover proved itself to be a cosmopolitan host city with a rich royal heritage, demonstrating once again that genuine hospitality, excellent cuisine and elegant tradition have lost none of their fascination in the modern world.

Thank you and Vive la Chaîne!

Karin Deißner
Chargée de Presse

Photos: Detlef Lehner and Christian Wyrwa Fotografie Hannover