Introduction
Berlin is a history rich city that still has scars from World War Two. If you are a history geek or just want to learn about what happened in the world, then you need to visit Berlin WW2 attractions. In this blog post we delve a little more in-depth into some of the important sites that give you a view into the city’s past. Get walking shoes at the ready and get set to journey through history!
1. The Reichstag Building
An iconic symbol of Berlin and a must see for history lovers the Reichstag Building is. It was damaged and built in 1894, and played an important role during World War II. Berlin’s resilience, however, is the building’s restoration after the war. Today, it is Germany’s Parliament seat, with an incredible view over the city from its glass dome. To avoid long queues make sure to book your visit in advance.
2. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
The Holocaust Memorial, a powerful memorial is a place of reflection and remembrance. It was built of 2,711 concrete slabs arranged in a grid pattern, a distance of 0.8 miles from the Brandenburg Gate. If you walk through the memorial it is a feeling of aloneness and disorientation, symbolizing the tragedy and the loss of the Jewish community during the second world war. Pay respect and consider the history it represents, take a moment.
3. Topography of Terror
Topography of Terror is chilling, was built on the site of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters. It presents documents, images and artifacts related to the atrocities that occur during the war. Admission to this outdoor and indoor historical site is free of charge, and serves as a great way to get an overview of how the Nazi’s rose to power, their rule, and their fall.
4. Checkpoint Charlie
During the Cold War, this famous border crossing was called Checkpoint Charlie. Today it is a reminder of the divided city and an important historical landmark. At the Checkpoint Charlie Museum you can learn more about the dangerous escape attempts made by East Germans during this time. There’s even a chance to have your photo taken with actors dressed as American and Russian soldiers, injecting a little nostalgia into your trip.
5. The Berlin Wall Memorial
The shock of the Berlin Wall was a physical and symbolic barrier that divided the city for nearly the entire three decades. The wall section near Bernauer Strasse is a memorial wherein you can explore a bit of the original wall and the personal stories of people whose lives were touched by it. There’s a Documentation Center, a Chapel of Reconciliation and an observation platform from which you can see remains of the wall and the ‘death strip’.
6. Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial
Sachsenhausen was one of the larger concentration camps in World War Two and was located just outside Berlin. But it is a somber, necessary experience to visit this memorial and understand the scope of the Holocaust. The original guard towers, barracks and crematorium are preserved here and provide a witness to the horrors the prisoners suffered. Strongly recommended are guided tours in order to completely understand the history of the camp.
Conclusion
The dark chapter that shaped the world is remembered in Berlin’s WW2 attractions. Visiting these sites adds greater knowledge of the events of World War II and the lasting impressions. Remind that you should treat these places with respect and empathy. Visiting these sites and places pays tribute to those who suffered and make sure their stories remain untold.