Learn about the life and achievements of Ludwig van Beethoven in the world-famous composer’s birthplace, which houses a museum and memorial site.
Beethoven House is a museum and cultural institution that celebrates one of Bonn’s most famous residents, the 18th-century composer Ludwig van Beethoven. Get an insight into the composer’s life and work when you see collections of his manuscripts, sheet music, instruments and works of art. Wander through the preserved rooms of his childhood home and admire Beethoven’s genius reflected in his precious manuscripts. In the building’s charming garden, see a collection of busts that depict the eccentric composer’s appearance in different stages of his life.
Begin your visit to Beethoven House by exploring the museum building. The museum opened during Bonn’s 1893 chamber music festival and now contains the world’s largest Beethoven collection. Explore the rambling low-ceilinged rooms and take in the historical atmosphere. See over 150 exhibits across 12 rooms. These historical items, which include musical instruments and original manuscripts, tell the story of Beethoven’s life and work.
Check out Beethoven’s last pianoforte and the original manuscript of Moonlight Sonata. Letters, medallions, pictures and busts enrich your understanding of the composer’s life. You can also see everyday objects used by Beethoven and residents of the house, including period furniture. Learn more about each item by consulting the comprehensive accompanying brochure or by joining a guided tour.
Next door, visit the Digital Beethoven House, which encompasses two floors of multimedia exhibits. Put on a pair of headphones and be whirled away with Beethoven’s music or take the kids through the child-friendly Hello Beethoven digital exhibit. Walk to the garden to enjoy the sculptures amid the pretty greenery. Find out what’s on at the Chamber Music Hall and enjoy live performances from the hall’s varied music programme. Pick up souvenirs and sheet music from the Beethoven House shop.
Beethoven House is situated in the centre of historic Bonn and it is served by its own bus and rail stop. Admission includes a printed guide in several different languages. Guided tours and audio guides incur an extra fee and may need advance booking. The museum is open daily, with regular closures during Easter, Christmas and New Year’s periods.
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