The gorgeous and historically rich city of Bonn offers an answer if you’ve ever wondered what the capital city of Germany was prior to Berlin.
The Rise of Bonn as the Capital
A proud capital of the united Germany not only from 1871, when the German Empire was founded, but also from 1949 to 1990, when it was the country’s capital from the founding of the Federal Republic until reunification. Political factors arising from Germany’s divide following World War II were the main reasons for this decision.
Bonn, taken in the western part of the country, was chosen as provisory capital because it was close to the border of the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic.
Bonn Historical Meaning
There is no lack of historicity in Bonn, which stretches back 2,000 years. Originally as a Roman settlement named ‘Bonna,’ it was the regional administrative centre. It evolved throughout the centuries into a successful city with the cultural, political and educational influences.
Ludwig van Beethoven was one of the most iconic figures of the city. Born in Bonn in 1770, the famous composer was its birthplace, which is now a museum of his life and work.
From Berlin to Bonn
After World War II, Germany found itself divided into two separate entities: the West Germany and the German Democratic republic (East Germany). Like Berlin, the former capital of the German Empire, the city was divided between the two states.
Following the creation of the German Federal Republic it was decided that Berlin would be the capital of both West Germany and East Germany. The capitol of West Germany was moved from Bonn, however, because of Cold War tensions, Bonn served as the temporary capitol.
This safe location far from the possibility of the conflict zone not only allowed just one city to become the keystone of Germany, but also made at least one city less likely to dominate just one.
Bonn as a Political Hub
Political activities took place during Bonn’s time as the capital. The Bonn seat also belonged to the German government, or Bundestag, and many federal ministries and agencies.
At its zenith, Bonn was home to some 300,000 people, so its facilities and services were geared to feed the recreational and bureaucratic requirements of its governmental institutions.
Bonn’s Legacy
After reunification Berlin became Germany’s capital once more, but Bonn left its mark. The city’s progress, reforms and rebuilding after the collapse of World War II made it its time as the capital.
Bonns many landmarks and institutions of historical importance are scattered throughout. For instance, the Museum Mile is a string of important museums near to one another including the Art and Exhibition Hall of the Federal Republic of Germany and the House of History of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Bonn is also the home of some of the best known research institutes and universities in the world, which still play their part in ensuring that the city remains so intellectually and culturally active.
Exploring Bonn Today
Use Bonn as a destination and you’ll discover a city that combines its rich past with its modern necessities. Be sure the top of your list is the Beethoven House and Museum where you can uncover what goes on inside the musical genius.
The choice: Bonn’s picturesque Rhine promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, is a perfect place for a nice, leisurely stroll. Poppelsdorf Palace houses the Natural History Museum and Botanical Gardens, don’t forget to visit.
Bonn, as well, is renowned for having several projects and festivals annually including the Beethoven Festival, which welcomes music lovers from all over the globe.
Conclusion
Although Berlin is today the capital of Germany, yet Bonn was also important at various stages in the country’s history as its capital. Bonn remains an absorbing snapshot of Germany’s past from its Roman foundations to its Cold War political importance.
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