Museum Berlin-Karlshorst: Where WWII Ended

Located in the Karlshorst district of Berlin, the Museum Berlin-Karlshorst stands as a powerful reminder of the end of World War II in Europe. It was within these walls, formerly the officers' mess of a Wehrmacht pioneer school, that representatives of the German High Command signed the unconditional surrender on May 8, 1945, bringing an end to the devastating conflict. The museum's exhibits delve into the complex and often turbulent relationship between Germany and the Soviet Union, with a particular focus on the brutal war waged between 1941 and 1945. Through photographs, documents, and artifacts, the museum presents both the German and Soviet perspectives on the war, exploring the motivations, experiences, and consequences of this pivotal period in history. Visitors can explore the original surrender hall, preserved as a solemn testament to the events that transpired there. The museum also features displays on the Soviet Military Administration in Germany, which was headquartered in the building from 1945 to 1949. Outdoor exhibits include a Soviet T-34 tank and other military vehicles. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the museum has changed its name from “German-Russian Museum” to “Museum Berlin-Karlshorst”.