Visit the Open-Air Exhibition in Berlin – Revolution and the Fall of the Wall

Experience the moving history of the Peaceful Revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall up close. The open-air exhibition "Revolution and the Fall of the Wall" offers profound insights into the events that led to German reunification.

Exhibition: Revolution and the Fall of the Wall

Since June 15, 2016, the Robert Havemann Society has been presenting an impressive open-air exhibition on the grounds of the former Stasi headquarters in Berlin-Lichtenberg. Covering 1,300 square meters, the exhibition documents the key stages of the Peaceful Revolution in East Germany – from the initial protests to the fall of the Wall and German reunification.

The Exhibition in Detail

Key Themes

The exhibition is divided into several thematic areas:

Awakening: Early protests and the growing discontent in East Germany.
Revolution: Mass demonstrations and the increasing pressure on the regime.
Unity: The path from the opening of the Wall to German reunification.

More than 650 impressive photographs, historical documents, and films illustrate the social upheaval in East Germany and highlight the moving moments of the successful revolution for freedom.

Personal Stories

At the heart of the exhibition are the courageous East Germans who stood up against the communist dictatorship and ultimately brought it down. Their personal stories make the exhibition especially powerful and tangible.

The Exhibition Site

Historical Background

Until 1990, the Stasi headquarters in Berlin-Lichtenberg served as the main office of the Ministry for State Security, East Germany's secret police. Up to 7,000 full-time Stasi employees worked here, and Stasi Minister Erich Mielke had his office in House 1 from 1962 to 1989.

Current Use

Today, the site houses the Stasi Museum, which features the exhibition "State Security in the SED Dictatorship." The centerpiece of the museum is Erich Mielke’s original office.

Practical Information

Opening Hours and Admission

The open-air exhibition is accessible 24/7 and is free of charge.

Audio Guide

A 45-minute audio guide is available in German, English, French, and Italian, guiding visitors through the exhibition. Audio guide devices can be rented for a small fee of 1 EUR at the information desk in House 22, which is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Accessibility

All areas of the open-air exhibition are wheelchair accessible. However, the information desk in House 22 is not barrier-free.

Other Open-Air Exhibitions in Berlin

Berlin offers numerous open-air exhibitions that explore the city’s history. A standout example is the East Side Gallery, the world’s longest open-air gallery. Stretching 1.3 kilometers, it features over 100 paintings by artists from around the globe, painted directly onto the remains of the Berlin Wall.

Berlin Wall Tours

For those who want to delve deeper into the history of the Berlin Wall, guided tours are an excellent option. Companies like GetYourGuide offer various tours that allow you to explore former border routes and learn more about the events of 1989. One highly recommended experience is the Cold War walking tour along the Berlin Wall Trail, where you can walk alongside the original wall from Gesundbrunnen to Prenzlauer Berg.

Tickets and Bookings

Many of these tours and activities can be conveniently booked through GetYourGuide. The platform offers a wide range of experiences in Berlin, from historical tours to cultural events, allowing you to tailor your visit and discover the city from different perspectives.

Conclusion

The open-air exhibition "Revolution and the Fall of the Wall" in Berlin is a must-see for anyone interested in recent German history. It not only provides an in-depth insight into the events of 1989, but also honors the courage and determination of those who fought for freedom and democracy.

At a Glance

Address, Opening Hours …

Where: Courtyard of the Stasi Headquarters, Ruschestraße 103, 10365 Berlin-Lichtenberg, U5 Magdalenenstraße
When: Daily, 24 hours
Admission: Free