Munster, also known as Munster (Örtze) or formerly Munsterlager, is a small town located in the district of Heidekreis in Lower Saxony, Germany. Positioned almost equidistant from the major cities of Hamburg and Hanover, Munster occupies a strategic location in northern Germany.
The town is best known as a significant military center, home to the German Army's largest garrison. It also serves as the fourth largest garrison in the German Armed Forces overall. The town's location between two training areas—Munster North and Munster South—reflects its primary function as a military installation and training hub.
Beyond its military role, Munster hosts the German Chemical Defence Research Establishment and the Society for the disposal of chemical warfare agents and old armaments GmbH (Ltd.) (GEKA), which operates from the town. These facilities underscore Munster's importance to Germany's defense infrastructure and military support operations.