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Bonn

Bonn's Second Act: From Cold War Capital to Global Climate Hub

4.8 km144 min7 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Discover the incredible metamorphosis of Bonn. Once a quiet university town thrust into the spotlight as West Germany's provisional capital, it faced an existential crisis when the government moved to Berlin. But Bonn didn't fade away. Instead, it reinvented itself as a powerhouse for global climate action and international diplomacy. On this immersive walking tour, you'll explore the architectural ghosts of the Cold War, stand where the fall of the Berlin Wall was announced, and gaze up at the ultra-modern towers where the future of our planet is negotiated today. Join us to uncover how a modest city on the Rhine became the beating heart of global sustainability.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

FSC International Center

The starting point of our journey, representing the influx of global environmental NGOs that paved the way for Bonn's new identity.

FSC International Center

Image by Eckhard Henkel on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 de)

1.91 km • 29 min
During your walk

Interlude

A deep dive into the psychological trauma of the capital relocation and the ongoing contradictions of Germany's dual capital system.

2

STOP 2

Engagement Global

A central hub connecting German civil society with Global South projects, illustrating the everyday work of internationalism.

Engagement Global

Image by Eckhard Henkel on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 de)

1.19 km • 18 min
3

STOP 3

German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)

Located in the former government press area, IDOS highlights the academic research supporting Bonn's international policy work.

0.58 km • 9 min
4

STOP 4

World Conference Center Bonn (WCCB)

The modern stage for global diplomacy, where international climate summits bring thousands of delegates to the Rhine.

World Conference Center Bonn (WCCB)

Image by Qualle on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.58 km • 9 min
5

STOP 5

Altes Wasserwerk

A former pump house that served as an emergency parliamentary chamber, now integrated into the UN Campus.

Altes Wasserwerk

Image by de:Benutzer:Qualle on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.34 km • 5 min
6

STOP 6

UN Campus (Langer Eugen)

The visual icon of 'UN City Bonn,' housing the UN Climate Change Secretariat in former parliamentary skyscrapers.

UN Campus (Langer Eugen)

Image by Eckhard Henkel on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 de)

0.21 km • 3 min
7

END

Deutsche Welle Headquarters

The voice of Germany to the world, fostering global dialogue and enriching Bonn's multicultural fabric.

Deutsche Welle Headquarters

Image by barit on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, environmental advocates, and urban explorers fascinated by the repurposing of political spaces.
  • Best time Weekdays during business hours to feel the bustling international atmosphere, or early evenings for a quieter, reflective architectural stroll.
  • What to bring Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as we will be covering significant ground along the Rhine.
  • Weather prep Bring an umbrella or windbreaker; the breeze off the Rhine can be surprisingly brisk.
  • Security note Some UN and government buildings have strict security perimeters. Please respect all signage and barriers.
  • Audio tip Use noise-canceling headphones to fully immerse yourself in the narrative despite the city traffic.
  • Refreshments Grab a coffee near the UN Campus; there are excellent international cafes catering to the diverse workforce.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Ian MacLeod
Audio sample
0:000:00

Ian MacLeod

  • Power, Protest & Civic Spaces
  • Scotland

Connoisseur of political movements. Traces the routes of protests and explains the power of public spaces.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

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