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North Rhine-Westphalia State Parliament

Discover the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia's democracy at the State Parliament in Düsseldorf, an architectural marvel where history, art, and political engagement converge on the Rhine.

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The State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia, situated on the banks of the Rhine in Düsseldorf, is more than just a legislative building; it's a symbol of democracy and transparency. Designed in the structuralism style by Eller, Moser, and Walter, its circular architecture represents the interconnectedness of parliamentary processes. Housing the elected representatives of North Rhine-Westphalia, the parliament is responsible for passing laws, electing the Minister-President, and overseeing the state government. Visitors can explore the building's unique architecture, view works by renowned artists, and learn about the region's political history. With its open design and public forums, the Landtag welcomes citizens to engage with their government, making it a significant landmark in Düsseldorf.

A brief summary to State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia

Local tips

  • Check the Landtag's official website for tour schedules and special events, as access may be limited during parliamentary sessions or private functions.
  • Explore the art collection within the Landtag, featuring works by renowned German artists, offering a unique blend of culture and politics.
  • Take a stroll along the Rhine River promenade after your visit, enjoying scenic views of the city and the iconic Rheinturm (Rhine Tower).
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take the U70, U74, U75, U76, U77, or U79 Stadtbahn (light rail) lines towards the city center. Get off at the 'Landtag/Kniebrücke' station. From there, it's a short walk of approximately 5 minutes. The cost for a single ticket (Einzelticket) within Düsseldorf is approximately €2.90.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the city center (e.g., Königsallee), the State Parliament is approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Head west towards the Rhine River and follow the promenade south. You'll pass the Rheinturm (Rhine Tower) on your way. The Landtag is located just south of the Rheinturm.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof to the Landtag will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €12-€18. From Königsallee, the fare would be slightly less, around €8-€12.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Platz des Landtags 1, 40221 Düsseldorf. Parking is available at the Q-Park Apollo car park, a few minutes' walk from the Landtag. Hourly rates typically range from €2.50 to €3.50, with daily maximums around €20-€25. Underground parking is also available, with access from the street.

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Discover more about State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia

The State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia, or Landtag, stands as a testament to modern German architecture and democratic ideals. Located in Düsseldorf, the state capital, this impressive structure serves as the central legislative body for North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany's most populous state. More than just a functional building, the Landtag is a symbol of transparency, citizen engagement, and the region's rich political history. The Landtag's history began after World War II when Düsseldorf became the state capital in 1946. Initially, parliamentary sessions were held in the Ständehaus am Kaiserteich, now home to the K21 art museum. However, the need for a dedicated space led to the planning of a new building in the late 1970s. The architectural firm of Eller, Moser, Walter, and Partners won a nationwide competition with their structuralist design, and the new Landtag building officially opened on October 2, 1988. The building's architecture is striking, characterized by its circular forms and extensive use of glass. The circular design, a key element of the structuralist style, symbolizes the interconnectedness of the parliamentary process, where "wheels should interlock like clockwork." The building's facade is clad in copper and features horizontal window bands divided into squares, creating a modern yet conventional aesthetic. The plenary hall, the heart of the parliament, cantilevers out towards the Rhine, supported by narrow masonry stilts, offering impressive views of the river. The building's design emphasizes openness and accessibility, inviting citizens to engage with their government. The Landtag is not only a place of political decision-making but also a repository of art and history. The building houses a collection of works by renowned artists, including Günther Uecker, Jörg Immendorff, and Otto Piene. One of the most notable pieces is the sculpture "Tzaphon" by Israeli artist Dani Karavan, located in front of the main entrance. This large-scale architectural sculpture, with its railway tracks, serves as a poignant reminder of the Holocaust and the importance of vigilance against oppression. Visitors can explore the Landtag through guided tours and information programs. The Parliamentary History Building offers an exciting look back at the history of the State Parliament. The visitor center features a multimedia concept with a 240-degree panoramic screen, providing insights into the workings of the parliament and the region's political landscape. During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to watch a film and engage in a Q&A session at the State Parliament Forum. The Landtag plays a crucial role in North Rhine-Westphalia's political system. As the elected representation of the people, the parliament is responsible for passing laws, adopting the state budget, and controlling the state government. It also elects the Minister-President, the head of the state government. The Landtag's work directly impacts the lives of the state's 17.5 million residents, shaping policies on issues ranging from education and healthcare to infrastructure and environmental protection. The Landtag's location on the Rhine River adds to its significance. The Rhine has been a vital transportation artery and a source of economic prosperity for the region for centuries. The Landtag's presence on the riverbank symbolizes the connection between the government and the people it serves. In recent years, the Landtag has undergone renovations and expansions to meet the evolving needs of parliamentary operations. A new extension, designed by Schulz und Schulz Architekten, is currently under construction. This extension will add office and meeting rooms, providing space for hearings, specialist committees, and citizen dialogues. The design features four ring-shaped buildings connected to the existing Landtag building and integrated into a park, further enhancing the building's accessibility and connection to the surrounding environment. The State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia is a must-see destination for anyone interested in German politics, modern architecture, or the history of North Rhine-Westphalia. Its open design, public forums, and impressive art collection make it a welcoming place for citizens to engage with their government. Whether you're a student, a tourist, or a resident of North Rhine-Westphalia, a visit to the Landtag is an enriching experience that will deepen your understanding of democracy and the region's vibrant political culture. The Landtag building is open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on specific Sundays a month. On weekends, visitors can also explore the chambers of the parliamentary groups, the plenary hall, the press conference room, and some committee rooms as well. Visitors can take an art-focused tour that explains 17 different art pieces showcased in the building and provides biographical information on the artists. The Landtag Building hosts many community events for students, businesses, and residents alike. Keep an eye out on their calendar for upcoming events.

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