Are you planning a trip to Berlin and interested in exploring the city’s history? If so, a visit to Sachsenhausen is a must! Located in Oranienburg, about 35 kilometers north of Berlin, Sachsenhausen was a Nazi concentration camp during World War II. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about taking a train to Sachsenhausen.

Why Visit Sachsenhausen?

Visiting Sachsenhausen provides a unique opportunity to learn about the dark history of Nazi Germany and pay tribute to the victims. It is a somber but essential experience that helps us remember the past and better understand the consequences of hatred and intolerance.

How to Get to Sachsenhausen by Train

The train is one of the most convenient ways to reach Sachsenhausen. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Departure from Berlin

Start your journey in Berlin at any of the major train stations like Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main station), Berlin Alexanderplatz, or Berlin Friedrichstraße. These stations offer direct connections to Sachsenhausen.

Step 2: Selecting the Appropriate Train

There are regular regional trains that operate between Berlin and Oranienburg, where Sachsenhausen is located. These trains are labeled RB (Regionalbahn) or RE (Regional Express). You can find the train schedule on the official German railway website, Deutsche Bahn, or consult the information displays at the train stations.

Step 3: Purchasing Tickets

Prior to boarding the train, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. Tickets can be bought at the train stations from ticket machines or at the manned ticket counters. It’s recommended to check the ticket prices and travel options in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

Step 4: Boarding the Train

Once you have your ticket, find the platform for the desired train. The platforms are clearly marked with signs, and the trains are usually well-indicated by their numbers and destinations. Allow yourself enough time to locate the correct platform before your train’s departure time.

Step 5: Journey to Oranienburg

Board the train heading towards Oranienburg. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views of the German countryside as you make your way towards Sachsenhausen.

Step 6: Arrival at Oranienburg

Once you arrive at Oranienburg, leave the train station and make your way to the bus stop located just outside the station. From there, take bus number 804 or 821 to the Sachsenhausen Memorial. The bus journey takes approximately 10 minutes and drops you off near the entrance of the memorial site.

What to Expect at Sachsenhausen

At Sachsenhausen, you’ll find various exhibitions, memorials, and structures that offer insights into the prisoners’ lives and the atrocities committed during the Nazi era. Some highlights include:

Visitor Center and Museum

Start your visit at the official visitor center and museum. Here, you’ll find exhibitions detailing the camp’s history, personal stories of survivors, and the horrors perpetrated by the Nazis. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the camp and its significance.

Prisoner Barracks

Explore the reconstructed prisoner barracks to gain insight into the living conditions endured by those interned in the camp. These stark reminders offer a glimpse into the day-to-day life of the prisoners.

Appellplatz and Guard Towers

Walk through the Appellplatz, the roll-call square, where prisoners were subjected to brutal inspections and roll-call procedures. The Guard Towers surrounding the square serve as a chilling reminder of the camp’s constant surveillance and control.

Crematorium

Visit the crematorium, which was used to dispose of the bodies of prisoners who died in the camp. This solemn place stands as a testament to the mass killings that took place in Sachsenhausen.

Tips for Your Visit

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking.
• Consider taking a guided tour to enhance your understanding of the camp’s history. Knowledgeable guides can provide additional context and answer any questions you may have.
• Take a moment for reflection and respect the solemnity of the site. Sachsenhausen holds great significance as a place of remembrance, so it’s important to approach your visit with reverence.

Remember, your visit to Sachsenhausen is not just about gaining knowledge but also about paying tribute to the victims and ensuring that history is never forgotten. By taking a train to Sachsenhausen, you’re embarking on a journey that will deepen your understanding of the past and encourage a commitment to a more tolerant and inclusive future.