There really are only a few places in terms of historical significance that compare with concentration camps. These are places that help remember what happened during World War II and the Holocaust. But if you’re new to a subject, you might be asking, why is it important to visit a concentration camp museum near Berlin?
The Importance of Remembering
If it weren’t for learning about the events of the past we’d keep repeating them. Going to a concentration camp museum is a better way for you to learn about the things that went on and even pay tribute to the survivors of such places.
The special thing about visiting a concentration camp museum is that it promotes empathy and understanding as well. This enables you to connect emotionally to the people’s stories and experiences of a very dark time in history.
Choosing the Right Museum
Museums relating to concentration camps exist all over Germany, but one, near Berlin, stands out in particular, the Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum.
Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum
Sachsenhausen started out as model camp for training SS officers, and became one of the largest and most infamous concentration camps. It was a template for a lot of the other camps.
There are detailed exhibitions which documented history and conditions for the camp.
You can get an idea of how the camp was laid out by exploring the remaining buildings — barracks and infirmary — yourself.
Also, there are guided tours that give in depth and context to consolidate your understanding.
Sachsenhausen Museum Visiting Tip
When planning your visit to Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum, consider the following:
You need a whole day to really take it in.
You are walking a lot here. So wear comfortable shoes.
There are few things you can purchase inside the museum grounds, so bring some water and snacks.
Have some background knowledge on the camp before reading about it.
Keep in mind that the place is solemn, and be respectful.
Other Adam’s Concentration Camp Museums in Germany
If you have the opportunity to visit other concentration camp museums in Germany, consider the following options:
Memorial Site of Dachau Concentration Camp
Dachau is the first regular concentration camp that Nazi regime built. It consists of a museum, historical exhibitions and preserved camp buildings.
Buchenwald Concentration Camp Memorial
Buchenwald was situated near Weimar, and did service as a model for all other SS camp hierarchies. Guided tours, exhibitions, plus the opportunity to see the still existing camp structures are available at the memorial.
Conclusion
You can visit concentration camp museums in Berlin or elsewhere in Germany and you can feel this history very personally. It is a sadness but a necessary thing; it teaches us about the past, it reminds us what human dignity and human compassion are about.
When you choose to visit these museums, you are participating personally in the preservation of the memory of the victims, to make sure these stories are left to tell.