Berlin, the capital city of Germany, was involved world war two. A visit to the WW2 sights in Berlin allows you to visit the historic sites of the war, and see the effects the war had on Berlin. We will explore some of WW2 sights in Berlin and share some tips to help you make the most of your visit in this comprehensive guide for beginners.
1. Brandenburg Gate
In addition to being the heart of the city of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate is also a major historic memento. The gate was the backdrop stage for many propaganda events during the Nazi era. Today it is a strong symbol of the German division and the reunification of Germany. Walk through the gate and think about what historical events took place in here.
2. Reichstag Building
Another must see of WW2 in Berlin is the Reichstag Building. It was where the Nazi party rose and all the horrors of the war literally came to. After the war, the site was rebuilt and the building is the seat of the German Parliament. Visit the Dome, a must see for any visit with wonderful panoramic views over the city and exhibitions detailing Germany’s history.
3. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Overlooking the Brandenburg Gate, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is a keeping silent memorial to the six million Jews who died during the Holocaust. It is an immensely moving experience walking through the maze of the 2,711 concrete slabs that make up that structure. Visit the first police memorial for some time and give it your respect.
4. Topography of Terror
Located on the site where the SS and Gestapo had their headquarters, The Topography of Terror is an open air museum. This museum gives you a whole story of the Nazi regime, its crimes, and the war. Photographs, exhibitions and documentation show how the atrocities happened during this dark time. It is a trip that is somber but devoid of importance if you don’t make the effort.
5. Checkpoint Charlie
During the Cold War, the most famous border crossing between East and West Berlin was called Checkpoint Charlie. Today, it acts as a metaphor to the divided city. Go to the checkpoint and see the museum next door, to learn of the attempts to escape East into West and know what would have happened to the lives of people living under the dictatorial regime of the former German Democratic Republic.
6. Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp is a strong reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust, and lies just outside of Berlin. It’s possible to join guided tours so they can tell you about the camp’s history, and the unimaginable suffering its prisoners suffered. Yet a solemn visit to pay respects to those who died and never forgotten such events.
Conclusion
Berlins building from WW2 sights give you a chance to involve yourself with history while understanding the events that revolutionized the world. When planning to visit, always take your time to plan ahead so you have enough time to tour around in each site. These sights may make us sad, but they also give us lessons about what happens when war comes and how important peace is. Visiting these places doesn’t just mean paying respect to the past, but also will help to a better future.