The site was originally constructed as part of Bonn's Baroque fortification ring starting in 1644.
During the 18th century, the bastion was used to collect customs duties from ships traversing the Rhine.
The terrace provides a strategic vantage point that was historically vital for defensive surveillance of the river.
The Arndt monument was originally erected in 1865 and serves as a tribute to the German nationalist writer who was a professor at the adjacent university.
The bastion is one of the few remaining physical components of the city's military architecture, as most other walls were dismantled in the 18th century under Elector Clemens August.
The Alter Zoll is a prominent section of Bonn's former 17th-century fortification system, situated on a high embankment overlooking the Rhine. It features a historic bastion that once served as a customs post for river traffic. The site now functions as an elevated public promenade and a popular viewpoint for the river valley and the Siebengebirge hills. A notable bronze statue of the poet Ernst Moritz Arndt stands prominently on the terrace. The location borders the extensive Hofgarten park and the main building of the University of Bonn. It is maintained as a landscaped park area accessible to the public throughout the year.
From the edge of the terrace facing the Rhine, specifically near the Arndt monument to capture both the sculpture and the river valley.
Bring a jacket as the elevated location is frequently exposed to cool breezes from the Rhine.
Visit the adjacent Hofgarten to combine the historic fortification tour with a walk through the university grounds.
Combine your visit with a walk along the Rhine promenade at the base of the bastion.
Do not attempt to climb the historical masonry walls, as they are fragile and protected heritage structures.
