International Open Day 10,000 Visitors to Villa Hammerschmidt
Bonn · Around 10,000 visitors took advantage of the Open Day held in conjunction with the 20-year Anniversary of the United Nations (UN) in Bonn.
It wasn’t an airport but visitors had to pass through a metal detector and receive a pat down if necessary. These were the security measures in place at Villa Hammerschmidt and the former Federal Chancellery. One visitor commented, “This is necessary in these days.” Around 10,000 visitors took advantage of the Open Day held in conjunction with the 20-year Anniversary of the United Nations (UN) in Bonn.
Those who wanted to tour the Villa or the former residence of the Chancellor had to exercise some patience. “It doesn’t work with children,” said Irina Mies who had come with her young son. Otherwise, she found the event to be successful, “The mood is very positive here.”
On stage, there was music from the band “UN-bearable”, made up of UN employees. The day was officially inaugurated at the UN by officials including Mayor of Bonn, Ashok Sridharan, Dieter Kalthoff, Director of Security for the Presidential Office, Richard Dictus, UNV Executive Coordinator, and Peter Failer, head of International Development Policy for the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Failer expressed that he never thought Bonn would become such a key location for the UN but was happy that he was wrong. He also assured that the BMZ, with headquarters in the former Federal Chancellery, would remain in Bonn.
Thanks to the decent weather, the event was well attended. Gary and Klaudia Ellison came because their son, Jack (12) is interested in politics. “We wanted to learn a bit about German history on Sunday morning,” said Gary Ellison, a British national. First, they visited the World Conference Center (WCCB) because they were not familiar with the building, formerly housing the German parliament.
The newly opened Marriott Hotel opened it’s rooftop terrace where visitors could enjoy a spectacular view of Bonn. Those who visited the UN stand were able to experience Africa virtually with 3D glasses. Museum König brought a snake along, which Mayor Sridharan wore around his neck. Federal police landed a Super Puma AS 332 L1 helicopter in front of the former Chancellor’s residence (where Helmut Kohl used to live).
Sport was also a part of the day with Telekom Baskets offering prizes for visitors shooting baskets. Baseball Club Bonn Capitals offered a chance to hit balls as well and the football team, Bonn Gamecocks also showed what they were about. There were lots of opportunities to try out various activities and win prizes. Food stands were also on hand, with the familiar picture of folks waiting in line.
(Orig. text: Stefan Knopp)
