Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

A poignant memorial in Berlin honoring homosexuals persecuted under Nazism, promoting tolerance and remembrance through its thought-provoking design and historical significance.

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Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

Located in the heart of Berlin, the Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism stands as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed against LGBTQ+ individuals during the Nazi regime. Opened in 2008, this memorial features a concrete cube with a window displaying a video loop of same-sex couples, symbolizing love and acceptance in defiance of past hatred. It serves as a place for reflection and remembrance, urging visitors to confront the history of persecution and promoting tolerance. Situated near other significant landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, it provides a crucial perspective on the diverse experiences of victims under Nazi rule. The memorial is open 24/7 and offers a space for quiet contemplation and education, encouraging a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ history and the ongoing fight for equality.

A brief summary to Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

Ebertstraße, Berlin, Mitte, 10785, DE
+49302639430
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Local tips

Visit at night for a different perspective; the memorial is illuminated, creating a more intimate and reflective atmosphere.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe to understand the broader context of Nazi persecution.
Take a moment to read the informational plaque next to the memorial to learn about the history of homosexual persecution under the Nazi regime.
Check online resources for guided tours focusing on LGBTQ+ history in Berlin, which often include a visit to this memorial.
Be mindful and respectful during your visit, as this is a place of remembrance and reflection for a community that suffered greatly.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take the bus number 200 towards Zoologischer Garten. Get off at the Brandenburger Tor stop. From there, walk north on Ebertstraße for about 5 minutes. The Memorial will be on your left. A single ticket for zones AB costs €3.80.
Public Transport

If you are near Potsdamer Platz U-Bahn station, take the U2 line towards Ruhleben and disembark at the Bundestag station. Exit the station and walk north along Ebertstraße for approximately 10 minutes. The Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism will be on your right. A single ticket for zones AB costs €3.80.
Walking

From the Brandenburg Gate, walk south on Ebertstraße for approximately 5 minutes. The Memorial will be on your right, across from the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. The walk is direct and easily accessible.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the Memorial will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €12-€18. Ask the driver to take you to Ebertstraße near the Brandenburg Gate.

Discover more about Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

The Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism, located on Ebertstraße in Berlin, is a solemn and thought-provoking monument dedicated to the memory of the gay men and women who suffered persecution and death under the Nazi regime. Unveiled on May 27, 2008, this memorial serves as a stark reminder of the injustices and brutality inflicted upon homosexuals during one of the darkest periods in human history. The memorial's design, created by Danish artists Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset, is intentionally minimalist and modern. It consists of a concrete cuboid structure, simple in form yet profound in its message. The cube is not a traditional statue or figurative representation but rather an abstract form that invites contemplation and reflection. Its starkness reflects the harsh realities faced by homosexuals during the Nazi era. A unique feature of the memorial is a small window set into one side of the concrete cube. Through this window, visitors can view a short film loop depicting same-sex couples kissing. This intimate and tender portrayal of love stands in stark contrast to the hatred and violence perpetrated by the Nazi regime. The film serves as a powerful symbol of resilience, defiance, and the enduring human spirit. The decision to include a video of same-sex couples sparked some debate during the memorial's planning stages. Some argued that the memorial should focus solely on gay men, as they were the primary targets of Nazi persecution under Paragraph 175 of the German criminal code. However, others felt that the memorial should also acknowledge the suffering of lesbians, who were also persecuted as "asocial elements," even though they were not explicitly targeted by Paragraph 175. As a compromise, the video is updated every two years to alternate between scenes of male and female couples. Located in the Tiergarten, near the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and other significant historical sites, the Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism is an integral part of Berlin's landscape of remembrance. Its proximity to these other memorials underscores the interconnectedness of the various groups targeted by the Nazi regime and highlights the importance of remembering all victims of oppression. The history of homosexual persecution under the Nazis is a tragic and often overlooked chapter of the Holocaust. In the 1930s, the Nazi regime intensified its crackdown on homosexuality, closing gay bars and clubs, banning homosexual organizations, and censoring publications. Paragraph 175, a law criminalizing homosexual acts, was rigorously enforced, leading to the arrest and imprisonment of tens of thousands of men. Many of those arrested were sent to concentration camps, where they were forced to wear a pink triangle, a symbol of shame and degradation. Pink triangle prisoners were often subjected to particularly brutal treatment, facing discrimination, violence, and even death. The exact number of homosexuals who perished in the concentration camps is unknown, but estimates range from several thousand to tens of thousands. After the war, Paragraph 175 remained in effect in both East and West Germany, and many homosexuals continued to face discrimination and persecution. It was not until 1969 that the law was reformed, and it was not until 1994 that it was finally repealed. In the decades since, there has been a growing recognition of the suffering endured by homosexuals under the Nazi regime, and efforts have been made to commemorate their memory and ensure that such atrocities never happen again. The Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism stands as a testament to the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and a reminder of the importance of fighting for equality and justice. It is a place where visitors can reflect on the past, honor the victims of persecution, and reaffirm their commitment to creating a more inclusive and tolerant future. The memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and admission is free. A nearby sign provides historical context in both German and English. Visiting the memorial offers a chance to contemplate the complexities of history and the importance of remembering marginalized communities. It serves as a reminder that the fight against intolerance and discrimination is an ongoing process, and that we must remain vigilant in defending the rights and dignity of all people. The memorial encourages visitors to engage with the past, learn from its lessons, and work towards a future where all individuals are treated with respect and compassion. As you stand before the memorial, take a moment to reflect on the courage of those who fought for their rights and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ equality. The surrounding area is rich in cultural landmarks, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary. Nearby, you can explore the bustling streets filled with shops, cafes, and galleries that showcase Berlin's diverse spirit. The Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of hope for a more inclusive future.

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Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

A brief summary to Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

Local tips

Getting There

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Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

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