The Beethoven Monument (Beethoven Denkmal) stands proudly in the heart of Bonn’s historic center, overlooking the city of the celebrated composer’s birth. Be awed by Beethoven’s impact on the city and the history of music as you stroll around the historic bronze statue. Take a seat in the square at a café and reflect on all the historically significant moments that have taken place in Münsterplatz because of the composer’s genius.
The large bronze statue was unveiled in 1845 as a part of the first Beethoven Festival, which celebrated the 75th anniversary of the composer’s birth. Note the statue’s regal stance and intriguing facial expression, which depicts the composer in a moment of inspiration. Beethoven’s gaze is turned upward and he appears to be composing music with the pen and notebook held in his hand. Bas-reliefs of mythical figures wrap around the bronze pedestal of the statue and a small bed of flowers surrounds the base. Take photographs of the Beethoven Monument with the magnificent period architecture in the background.
Stroll around the leafy square and admire the historic architecture around its perimeter. Imagine how the square would have looked in the mid-19th century at the statue’s unveiling. This event was attended by prominent figures including Queen Victoria, King Frederick William IV of Prussia, Prince Albert and several well-known musicians and composers of the time.
Take a seat at one of the cafés with outdoor tables spilling into the square. Have a local dish of cake and coffee while you enjoy the atmosphere. The Beethoven Monument is free to visit at any time of day. Learn more about Beethoven’s life and work at the nearby Beethoven House. Visit the monument during one of the seasonal markets held in Münsterplatz to see the statue colorfully lit.
