Bonn

Bonn is a federal city on the Rhine in North Rhine-Westphalia, located about 24 kilometers south of Cologne and home to around 300,000 people. The city extends across both banks of the river and combines historic neighborhoods with modern government buildings and research facilities.

Bonn served as the capital of West Germany between 1949 and 1990 and kept important federal offices after reunification. The city evolved from a Roman settlement to a religious center in the Middle Ages and later became the residence of the prince-electors of Cologne.

The Beethoven House preserves the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven and displays a collection of manuscripts, instruments, and personal items owned by the composer. The Kunstmuseum Bonn shows rotating exhibitions of contemporary art and works by Rhenish expressionists from the early twentieth century.

The University of Bonn occupies several locations throughout the city, with historic buildings like the main building housed in the former electoral palace. Many attractions lie within walking distance of each other, and bicycles are commonly used by locals and visitors as a means of getting around.

The Rheinaue park covers 160 hectares along the Rhine and was designed with principles reminiscent of Central Park, featuring expansive meadows, lakes, and gardens. The former government district in Bad Godesberg now houses international organizations and United Nations agencies.

Location: Cologne Government Region

Elevation above the sea: 60 m

Part of: Rhine-Ruhr Metropolitan Region, North Rhine-Westphalia

Shares border with: Rhein-Sieg District, Ahrweiler, Alfter

Website: https://international.bonn.de

GPS coordinates: 50.73528,7.10222

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:10