FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY

With its superb, immense white tent, the Federal Republic of Germany pavilion graces Île Notre-Dame like an oasis caressed by the desert wind. The undeniably elegant structure is made of steel cables supported by eight poles, over which a plastic net is stretched.

The technical and scientific contributions of this country are on display in an exhibition showcasing German engineering. There is also an exhibition retracing the impact of World War II on the country. A replica of the Gutenberg press from the 15th century, used to print the Bible, arouses universal curiosity. Demonstrations of the press in operation also have been organized to show how this amazing invention revolutionized the world of writing and communication. The table used by German chemist and physician Otto Hahn, winner of the 1944 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his discoveries in the fission of uranium, is on display. Visitors can also see a number of contemporary scientific instruments, some of which are even used in space and under water!

There is so much to say about German achievements in the automobile, railway and informatics industries; one of the first computers, the Z3, was invented in Germany in 1941. An amusing detail is that Albert Einstein's place in the pavilion is as an inventor of educational toys. People of all ages can enjoy the electric trains on display, an interest which truly seems to bridge the generation gap. Finally, to the delight of music lovers, many musicians perform at the Federal Republic of Germany pavilion. Visitors can let themselves be transported by this musical feast for the ears.