Planning a trip to Sachsenhausen? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate your way to one of Germany’s most important historical sites. Whether you’re interested in learning about the atrocities of the past or simply want to pay your respects, this blog post will provide you with all the information you need to make your journey to Sachsenhausen a smooth one.

1. Understanding Sachsenhausen

Sachsenhausen was a Nazi concentration camp situated in Oranienburg, Germany. It served as a prototype for many of the subsequent concentration camps established during World War II. Today, the Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the dark history of the camp and pay tribute to the victims who suffered there.

2. Getting to Sachsenhausen

There are several ways to reach Sachsenhausen, depending on your starting point and preferences. Here are the most common options:

2.1 By Train

The most convenient way to reach Sachsenhausen is by taking a regional train from Berlin. From the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main train station), you can catch a train directly to Oranienburg, the town closest to Sachsenhausen. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive in Oranienburg, you can either take a taxi or walk to the Sachsenhausen Memorial, which is about 2 kilometers away.

2.2 By Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take bus number 804 from the Berlin S-Bahn station “Frohnau” towards the Sachsenhausen Memorial. The journey takes about 40 minutes. Keep in mind that buses may be subject to traffic congestion, so plan accordingly.

2.3 By Car

If you’re driving to Sachsenhausen, take the A111 highway from Berlin towards Hamburg, and then exit at the Oranienburg junction. Follow the signs to Sachsenhausen, where you’ll find ample parking space.

3. Planning Your Visit

Once you’ve arrived at Sachsenhausen, it’s important to plan your visit to make the most of your time there. Here are a few tips:

3.1 Guided Tours

Consider joining a guided tour to fully understand the significance of the site. The Sachsenhausen Memorial offers various guided tours in multiple languages, which provide detailed information about the camp’s history and the stories of its prisoners. Booking a tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

3.2 Visitor Center

Start your visit at the Sachsenhausen Visitor Center, where you’ll find exhibitions, maps, and helpful staff. The visitor center provides an overview of the camp’s history and can help you plan your route through the memorial site.

3.3 Respectful Behavior

Remember that Sachsenhausen is a memorial site, and it’s crucial to show respect for the victims and the significance of the place. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit, and refrain from taking inappropriate photos or videos.

4. Things to See at Sachsenhausen

As you explore the Sachsenhausen Memorial site, you’ll come across various areas of historical significance. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Appellplatz, where prisoners were gathered for roll-call
• The watchtower and perimeter wall, symbolizing the oppressive nature of the camp
• The punishment cells, illustrating the brutal treatment of the inmates
• The barracks and museum, which house exhibitions about the camp’s history

Remember to allocate enough time to fully explore these areas and absorb the somber atmosphere of Sachsenhausen.

5. Conclusion

Sachsenhausen serves as a chilling reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make your journey to Sachsenhausen, ensuring a respectful and meaningful experience. Take the time to reflect on the past and honor the victims, as we must never forget the lessons of history.