[2] The district is located between Oker (Goslar) to the west, Harlingerode to the north, Schlewecke to the east and Bündheim to the southeast.

The name Göttingerode means “Clearing of Godo's people” and might stem from a shortening of Gotthard, or a root relating to Proto-Germanic *gudą "God".

As Nazi Germany attempted to achieve autarky on the import of ore, the Rammelsberg project was initiated, leading to the foundation of the Harlingerode Zinc works.

In order to provide living space for the required staff, the Free State of Brunswick officially allowed the new foundation of a town south of the Langenberg under the name Göttingerode.

The village's development was hampered by poor financial situation, air pollution, and instable land owing to the intensive operation of the Hansa Pit until August 23, 1960.