Hanover is the capital of Lower Saxony, a city of gardens and exhibitions. The Great Garden (Herrenhäuser Gärten) is one of the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Europe; the Old Town Hall is magnificent; the Maschsee is ideal for leisure; Hanover Zoo is highly distinctive. Local delicacies include Lower Saxony lentil stew, roasted pork knuckle, strawberry cheesecake, and local wheat beer.