The city’s modern capital is Berlin: not only does it possess the experience of its active city’s life but also concealed and unveiled history in its memorials. Of all these memorials it is Neue Wache that occupies a special place. Standing in center of Berlin, this singular building is dedicated to the memory of those who suffered in the war and under tyranny. Let us consider the details of Neue Wache and why it is considered to be significant for all those who study history of memory practices.

The History of Neue Wache

Neue Wache in English means New Guardhouse and was constructed between 1816 and 1818 in neo classical architecture. This building was used as a guard house when Prussia was a monarchy. To progress, Neue Wache changed its functions and looks several times over the years. For some time it served as a military museum as well. But it took another role after the Second World War.

Once the war was over, the East German government designated the place as a memorial area and transformed neue wache to commemorate. The present structure of the Neue Wache Memorial was built in 1960 with the design of Karl Friedrich Schinkel being restored and implemented. Let it be said that this dark and tearful monument represents a desire of any nation – to never forget the victims of war and tyranny.

To conclude, Neue Wache as Cultural Centre The Inception and meaning of Neue Wache Key Themes and symbols of Neue Wache

Another remarkable item of the Neue Wache is the central sculpture entitled “Mother with her Dead Son” The statue was created by Käthe Kollwitz . This piece of art describes a mother consoled in her arm a lifeless child which symbolizes grief.

In the middle of the space we find the sculpture inside a chamber with low level lighting where in the roof there is a small hole which allows a light beam to fall on the statue. The conscious decision here is to underline the pain and sorrow which is inflicted on the victims.

Honoring the Unknown Soldier

Neue Wache also honors the heroes, soldiers whose life was taken in various wars. The mausoleum at the middle of the memorial houses the ashes of an unknown German soldier and an unidentified member of the concentration camp. This represents mourning and honoring of victims who lost their lives in chaos of the war.

Remembering the Past

It shows that Neue Wache invites one to look back at the different tragic historical occurrences and ponder over them. It also symbolises war and dictatorship era as to show people importance and value of peace, democracy and human rights.

On arriving at the memorial, one is likely to hear a pathway of steps as you walk on the stones that cover the entire floor resulting to a feeling of a very quiet surrounding in the building. This purposefully created sound environment thus envelops visitors in a sobriety of the past and the importance of understanding.

Wrapping Up

New guard house is not simply architecture; it has become a symbol of both German and universal memory of the war’s victims and the victimized. Through architecture, sculptures, and atmosphere this memorial represents the necessity of commemoration and educating the public.

As you explore the beauty of Berlin you should set a portion of your time aside and visit Neue Wache. It will not only enhance your knowledge of history, but also ingrains a perception of human past and present in you.