Riepe – The best place in the world with heart and tradition!

Riepe – The best place in the world with heart and tradition!

Riepe, a charming town in the Aurich district, Lower Saxony, is on everyone's lips - and for good reason. On June 21, 2025, Riepe was celebrated as the “best place in the world” by NDR 1 Lower Saxony. With a population of just over 2,000, or more precisely 2,214 (as of January 2, 2023), Riepe can boast many advantages that offer its residents and visitors a comfortable life.

This small community lies on a flat, narrow ridge, also known as “de hooge Rype”, which borders the southeastern edge of the lowland from the old Ehe and the Ridding. The history of Riepe dates back to the 10th century, and the origins of the name are anchored in the Latin “Rand”, which is interpreted as “Rype”. The settlers in Riepe were pushed out of the Leybucht by storm surges in the early Middle Ages, which greatly influenced the development of the region, so Riepe is perhaps considered the oldest settlement in the area.

A place full of community and traditions

What particularly sets Riepe apart is the strong sense of community. This is reflected not only in the variety of facilities - from a supermarket to a bakery, a pharmacy, a restaurant, a flower shop, doctors and banks - but also in the active village community, which is organized, among other things, in the local Boßelverein. Not only is sport practiced here in sociable gatherings, but social cohesion is also strengthened.

The striking church tower, affectionately known as the “Tea Box”, is not only an architectural landmark, but also tells stories. The church, rebuilt in 1554, may have its roots in a 12th or 13th century chapel. The roof covering of the bell tower was also changed after the devastating Christmas flood of 1717. Such traditional anecdotes and historical details enliven the image of this centuries-old community.

Down-to-earth agriculture and nature

Until the 1960s, the Riepe area was heavily influenced by water, which had a particular impact on agriculture and transport. Many areas were under water in winter, and goods were often transported using dinghies. Historical photographs and postcards document the development of the place and its surrounding area.

Riepe is also known for its goose breeding, especially the old goose breed “Riepster Gans,” which has been preserved in small numbers to this day. These typical regional products create a special connection to agriculture and reflect down-to-earth traditions.

On June 1, 1972, Riepe was incorporated into the new municipality of Ihlow, but the region's old charm and resources remained untouched. With its tightly woven network of family traditions, active club life and an idyllic landscape, Riepe is not only a lively place to live, but also a destination for everyone who wants to experience authentic northern German life.

Like the reporting from NDR 1 Lower Saxony shows, Riepe is really a place where tradition, community and history combine harmoniously.

For further insights into the history of Riepe and the fascinating details of its development, it is worth taking a look at the informative pages of Ihlow and Ihlow village archive.