The main and permanent exhibition covers the late history of Germany, starting from the end of World War II until the present.

It is spread across 43,000 sqft. / 4,000 m² with more than 7,000 exhibits, like a Willys jeep and "ruined city" stage.

A lot of war- and post-war propaganda, as well as a proper T34-85 tank! What a rough brute, you could see the raw casting structure on the hull and turret.

These flags were suggestions for the new flag of the Federal Republic of Germany. Quite colourful and diverse.

From there one, the exhibit was segmented into decades, with the joining of Germany to the NATO, the Wirtschaftswunder (the economic boom) and development of the german armies on both sides of the wall.

Police equipment was a topic as well, from the early beginnings (look at the turrets on the truck!) until the later operations against terrorism and protests.

It continues to through the cold war, and the risk of a third world war with atomic weapons. This model shows the aftermath if an a-bomb would hit the city of Bonn, the former capital of Germany.

Towards the end of the exhibition, it goes towards the german unity and the memorablia of the seperation.

The final stage is an open hall with the present history and participation of Germany in international conflicts and its role in the world.

It was an interesting visit, very broad and comprehensive. I was a bit sad, that it didn't start earlier, with the Weimar Republic, as that part of history is taught as the cradle of democracy in Germany. The politic tension and conflicts would have been an interesting point to start from.

Never the less, the museum mile in Bonn is an impressive route and location, some of them are free, covered by a slightly higher parking fee. So if you're in the Rhineland, take the time and visit some of the exhibitions. The city if very modern and friendly towards visitors, so you'll find a lot of information and guides in lots of different languages.

Link: Haus der Geschichte