Willy Brandt was one of the most significant politicians in German and European history of the 20th century. For his lifelong commitment to peace, freedom, democracy, and human rights, he received worldwide recognition. As the only German politician of the post-war period, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1971. In 1979, Willy Brandt moved to Unkel and lived in the small town by the Rhine as a "citizen among citizens." Here, he wrote his "Memoirs" and looked back on an eventful life. From here, he continued to engage as an "elder statesman" worldwide for the realization of his political ideals. Willy Brandt died on October 8, 1992, in Unkel. The town of Unkel has made it its mission to preserve the memory of its famous citizen. A permanent exhibition has been established in the former savings bank building at Willy-Brandt-Platz.