Beethoven's Life Timeline

Ludwig van Beethoven is widely regarded as the greatest composer who ever lived. He dominates a period of musical history as no one else before or since. More than any other composer of his day, he was responsible for pushing convention and welcoming in the Romantic era of classical music.

250 years ago, on Dec, 17 1770 the mastermind was baptised in the church of St Remigius, Bonn, Germany. The date of his birth is not recorded, but since it was customary for baptisms to take place within 24 hours of birth, it is likely he was born on 16 December.