If you are visiting Berlin and interested in delving into the history of World War II and the Holocaust, you may be wondering which concentration camp is closest to Berlin and how you can visit it. In this blog post, we will explore the closest concentration camp to Berlin and provide you with valuable information to help you plan your tour.

The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

The closest concentration camp to Berlin is the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, located in Oranienburg, approximately 35 kilometers north of Berlin. Sachsenhausen was established in 1936 and became an operational model for later concentration camps.

Visiting Sachsenhausen

Visiting Sachsenhausen offers a powerful and moving experience, allowing visitors to gain insight into the horrors of the Nazi regime. Below, we provide you with essential information to plan your visit:

Getting There

To reach Sachsenhausen from Berlin:

• By train: Take the S1 train from Berlin to Oranienburg. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From Oranienburg station, you can walk to the camp (about 15-20 minutes) or catch a local bus.
• By guided tour: Another option is to join a guided tour from Berlin. Many tour companies offer day trips to Sachsenhausen, providing transportation and a knowledgeable guide who can provide historical context and answer any questions you may have during the tour.

Opening Hours

Sachsenhausen is open throughout the year except for December 24th and 31st. The opening hours are as follows:

Touring the Camp

Once you arrive at Sachsenhausen, you can explore the camp at your own pace or join a guided tour. Audio guides are available in various languages, providing detailed information about the different areas of the camp.

Some of the significant sites within Sachsenhausen include:

• The Appellplatz (Roll Call Square)
• The administration building and the former kitchen
• Station Z, the site of the camp’s execution facilities
• The museum and exhibition center

Exploring these sites helps visitors understand the harsh conditions, the routine of prisoners, and the atrocities committed in the camp.

Things to Keep in Mind

• It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot within the camp.
• Bringing food and drinks is allowed, but eating inside the camp premises is discouraged out of respect for the site’s history.
• Ensure you have enough time to explore the camp thoroughly. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to get a comprehensive understanding of Sachsenhausen.
• Remember to be respectful and maintain appropriate behavior while visiting the camp. It is a place of remembrance and should be treated as such.

Conclusion

The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp near Berlin offers a crucial opportunity to learn about the history and horrors of the Holocaust. By visiting this significant site, you can gain a deeper understanding of the past and pay tribute to the victims. Plan your trip to Sachsenhausen and ensure a meaningful experience that educates, informs, and fosters remembrance for generations to come.