Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial

The basics

The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial can only be visited as part of a guided tour—a unique learning experience, as the tours are typically led by former prisoners and historians, and offer firsthand insights into the harsh realities of GDR state security. Following your guide, the route explores the underground cells and the history of the 1953 workers’ uprising, as well as the site’s use as an espionage data processing center, providing an educational journey through a turbulent era.

Things to know before you go

• The permanent exhibition at the museum is barrier-free.

• Children under 14 years old are not recommended to visit, as the content may be upsetting.

• If you have large bags, backpacks, suitcases, or umbrellas, these must be stored in lockers.

• If you get hungry, eating and drinking is only permitted in the café area.

How to get there

To reach the museum, public transportation is your best bet. You can take Tram M5 to Freienwalder Strasse, a 4-minute walk away, or Tram M6 or 16 to Genslerstrasse, a 5-minute walk away. If you prefer traveling by bus, take bus #256 to Große-Leege-Strasse, which is about a 6-minute walk away, or Freienwalder Strasse, which is about 4 minutes away.

When to get there

The memorial is open daily from morning to early evening, except for a few holidays, and tours are offered several times a day in English and German. Weekends tend to be busier, so you may want to arrive early or visit on a weekday. Check the museum website for information on tours and to book tickets.

Other memorials in Berlin

Other key memorials to visit in Berlin include the Berlin Wall Memorial, offering insights into the division of the city during the Cold War, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a poignant tribute to Holocaust victims. These sites provide further historical context and reflection on Germany's past, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the city’s complex history.