It wasn't until the 19th century, when industrialisation caused rapid population growth, that Braunschweig was enlarged beyond its medieval fortifications and the Oker.

[2] From the Middle Ages up to the early modern period, Braunschweig's population ranged between about 15,000 and 25,000 people, making it one of the largest German cities at the time.

[4] Due to the city's growth since the 19th century, the district today therefore is home to just about 5.5% of Braunschweig's population, and makes up only 2.1% of its current area.

[6] A small section of the Altstadt survived the bombing, and since the 1990s there also have been increased efforts to restore and reconstruct historic buildings that had been destroyed in the war.

The Innenstadt is Braunschweig's main shopping district and home to the city's annual christmas market.