Discover the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial: A Journey Through History
Explore the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial, a poignant site of remembrance that reveals the harsh realities of East German political repression and the resilience of the human spirit.
A brief summary to Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial
- Genslerstraße 66, Berlin, Lichtenberg, 13055, DE
- +493098608230
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial stands as a powerful testament to the struggles endured during the era of East German oppression. Once a secret prison operated by the Stasi, the memorial now serves as a haunting reminder of a turbulent period in German history. Visitors are welcomed to explore the site, which has been meticulously preserved to convey the chilling atmosphere of its past. Guided tours are available, led by knowledgeable staff who share personal accounts and historical context, enriching the experience with stories that resonate deeply. As you wander through the stark corridors and solitary cells, the weight of history becomes palpable. The exhibits within the memorial provide insight into the lives of those who were imprisoned here, their stories of courage, resistance, and resilience highlighting the human spirit's capacity to endure in the face of tyranny. The thoughtful curation of artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations offers a comprehensive understanding of the Stasi's operations and the broader implications of surveillance and control. The memorial is not only a place of remembrance but also a space for reflection on freedom and human rights, making it a significant stop for anyone visiting Berlin. It encourages visitors to engage with the narratives of the past while contemplating the importance of safeguarding democracy and civil liberties today. With ample opportunities for learning and introspection, the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial is an essential destination for those seeking to understand Germany's complex history.
Local tips
- Book a guided tour in advance for an in-depth understanding of the memorial's history.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with tourists.
- Allow at least two hours for your visit to fully absorb the exhibits and the guided tour.
- Check the website for any special events or temporary exhibitions during your visit.
- Consider using public transport, as parking can be limited around the memorial.
Getting There
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Public Transport
If you are starting from Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take the S-Bahn (S5, S7, or S75) towards Lichtenberg. Get off at Lichtenberg Station after about 15 minutes. From Lichtenberg, transfer to tram line M8 towards Ahrensfelde and get off at the stop called 'Genslerstraße.' The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial is a short walk from the tram stop. Head south on Genslerstraße for about 300 meters until you reach the memorial at Genslerstraße 66.
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Public Transport
If you are near Alexanderplatz, take the U-Bahn line U5 towards Hönow. Change at Lichtenberg Station to the S-Bahn (S5, S7, or S75) towards Lichtenberg, and then follow the previous instructions to take tram line M8 towards Ahrensfelde, getting off at 'Genslerstraße.' The memorial will be a short walk from there.
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Public Transport
From Berlin Ostbahnhof, take the S-Bahn (S5, S7, or S75) towards Lichtenberg. Get off at Lichtenberg Station and transfer to tram line M8 towards Ahrensfelde. Alight at the 'Genslerstraße' stop and walk south on Genslerstraße for about 300 meters to reach the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial at Genslerstraße 66.
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Walking
If you are already in the neighborhood of Lichtenberg, you can walk directly to the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial. The address is Genslerstraße 66. Simply navigate to Genslerstraße, and the memorial is located approximately 10-15 minutes walking distance from the Lichtenberg train station.
Attractions Nearby to Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial
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Oberseepark
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Haus Lemke, Mies van der Rohe Haus
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Obersee-Orankesee-Park
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Strandbad Orankesee
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Orankesee
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Volkspark Prenzlauer Berg
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Strandbad Weißensee
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Stasi Museum
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Odyssee berlin
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Schaubude Berlin
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Stolperstein Richard-Sorge-Straße
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Zielona Gora
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Monkey as Art Judge Mural
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Stolpersteine für Max und Meta Behrendt
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Ernst-Thälmann-Denkmal
Landmarks nearby to Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial
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Der Wal von Friedrichshain
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Mural art Wahl
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Bersarinplatz
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Graffiti Wall of Fame
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Monument to the Polish soldiers and German anti-fascists
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Denkmal Friedrich II. von Preußen
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Großer Bunkerberg - Flakturm II G Volkspark Friedrichshain
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Monument to the International Brigades
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THE TOWER
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FRANZ HUTH memorial plaque
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Wasserturm Prenzlauer Berg
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Molecule Man
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Die Berliner Mauer
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Oberbaum Bridge
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East Side Gallery