Haseschacht

Hasestollen, Museum Industriekultur, Osnabrück

The Museum Industriekultur in Osnabrück is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the industrial history of the region, with a particular focus on mining. Situated at the Piesberg, it occupies the site of a former coal mine and quarry, offering visitors an immersive experience into the interplay between industry, nature, and society. The museum explores themes such as early factories, steam power, and the transition of Osnabrück from an agricultural town to an industrial hub. Its exhibitions include functioning steam engines, fossil collections, and insights into coal formation.

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Neue Sachlichkeit

Felix-Nussbaum-Haus, Osnabrück

The Felix-Nussbaum-Haus in Osnabrück is a museum dedicated to the works of Felix Nussbaum, a Jewish painter who was murdered at Auschwitz during the Holocaust. Designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, the building reflects Nussbaum’s life and art through its unconventional and striking design. Completed as Libeskinds first realized building in 1998, the museum features intersecting structures that evoke a sense of disorientation and confinement, mirroring the artist’s experiences during his persecution. Visitors can explore narrow corridors, abrupt intersections, and void spaces that challenge perception and create a unique emotional journey. The museum connects to the adjacent Kulturgeschichtliches Museum at various points, enhancing its integration within Osnabrück’s cultural landscape.

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Pax Westphalica

Rathaus des westfälischen Friedens, Osnabrück

The historic town hall of Osnabrück is a striking example of late Gothic architecture, constructed between 1487 and 1512. Its façade is characterized by an 18-meter-high hipped roof, complemented by six small towers that evoke the appearance of a fortress. A central flight of stone steps leads to the main entrance, which features a bronze handle inscribed with the year 1648 and adorned with a dove symbolizing peace. Above the entrance stands a statue of Charlemagne, the founder of Osnabrück, flanked by eight sculptures of German emperors, including Friedrich Barbarossa and Wilhelm I. These statues were gifted by the Prussian royal family in the 19th century, adding historical depth to the building’s exterior.

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All Quiet on the Western Front

Erich-Maria-Remarque-Friedenszentrum, Osnabrück

The Erich-Maria-Remarque-Friedenszentrum in Osnabrück is a small but significant museum dedicated to the life and work of Erich Maria Remarque, the city’s most famous son. Remarque, born in Osnabrück in 1898, is celebrated worldwide for his literary contributions, particularly his anti-war themes. The museum provides visitors with an intimate glimpse into his life, showcasing personal items such as his expansive desk and offering the opportunity to read his works translated into various languages.

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Bundeshaus

Bundestag, Bonn

The Bundeshaus in Bonn served as the provisional seat of the German Bundestag and Bundesrat from 1949 to 1999. Initially constructed as a pedagogical academy between 1930 and 1933, it was repurposed after World War II to host the newly established West German parliament. The original building was expanded with additions like the ‘Langer Eugen’ office tower in 1969 and a new plenary chamber by Günter Behnisch in 1992, which emphasized transparency and democracy.

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Expressionism

August-Macke-Haus, Bonn

August Macke (1887–1914) was a prominent German Expressionist painter and a key member of the ‘Der Blaue Reiter’ (The Blue Rider) group. Born in Meschede, he spent much of his life in Bonn, where he developed his distinctive style characterized by vibrant colors and simplified forms. His works often depicted serene urban scenes, gardens, and still lifes, radiating light and harmony. Tragically, Macke’s career was cut short when he died at the age of 27 during World War I in France. Despite his brief life, he produced over 11,000 artworks, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of art.

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Poppelsdorfer Schloss

Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Bonn

The Poppelsdorfer Schloss in Bonn is a Baroque palace built between 1715 and 1753 on the site of a former medieval water castle. Originally named ‘Clemensruhe’ after its founder, Elector Joseph Clemens, the palace was designed as a pleasure residence with symmetrical architecture and an inner courtyard. It later became part of the University of Bonn in 1818, housing scientific collections and the Mineralogical Museum. The Poppelsdorfer Allee, a tree-lined avenue with historic charm, connects the palace to Bonn’s city center, offering a picturesque approach for visitors.

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Wetherspoons

The Crosse Keys, London

Love it or hate it: JD Wetherspoon, commonly known as Wetherspoons, is one of the United Kingdom’s most iconic pub chains, founded in 1979 by Tim Martin. The name originates from a combination of ‚JD Hogg’, a character from the TV series ‚The Dukes of Hazzard‘, and Martin’s teacher in New Zealand, Mr. Wetherspoon, whose inability to control his class humorously mirrored the chaos of running a pub. The chain is renowned for its affordable food and drink, spacious venues, and eclectic locations, including converted banks, theaters, and even former car showrooms.

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