Handel was orphaned at the age of twelve and was still living in Halle when August Hermann Francke established his school town in 1698, which at that time rose up outside the gates of Halle, visible from afar. He probably also followed the development of the foundations, which had become known throughout Europe, during later visits to his hometown – most recently in 1729. Handel's knowledge of Francke's far-sighted reforms and social commitment certainly motivated him to support abandoned children in his adopted home of London: in 1749, he organized a concert in aid of the newly established Foundling Hospital, for which he also composed his own anthem, and conducted an annual charity performance of his Messiah there until his death. The 30-minute short tour offers an insight into the connection between Handel, Halle, and the orphanage.
For guests with concert tickets, there is only a €2 surcharge for the tour.
