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Numerous early and high medieval castles are known from the area around Hannover. Some of these fortifications have been scientifically investigated to some extent, while little is known about other fortifications in scientific research. However, a closer look into the archives of the responsible heritage agency in Hannover reveals that there is often much more information available on these sites, ranging from surface surveys to unpublished excavation reports. The extent to which this knowledge improves the state of research on the fortifications in the Hannover area is difficult to say at present, as a reappraisal of the extensive source material is still pending. However, the lecture will present the potential of these hidden archival materials and discuss a future strategy for using this data. In addition, the project "Denkmalviewer Niedersachsen" (Lower Saxony Monument Viewer), an online viewer listing Lower Saxony's cultural monuments, including fortifications, will be briefly presented and discussed.