Are you interested in learning about history firsthand in one of the most
significant sites of the 20th century? The Free Walking Tour Sachsenhausen
offers an invaluable experience that takes you through the former Nazi
concentration camp located just outside Berlin. In this blog post, we’ll
explore why you should consider taking this tour and what you can expect
from your visit.

Understanding the Importance of Sachsenhausen

Sachsenhausen, in Oranienburg, Germany, was one of the first Nazi
concentration camps operating from 1936 to 1945. It played a crucial role
in the persecution and extermination of millions of people. By visiting
Sachsenhausen, you have the opportunity to learn about the atrocities
committed during World War II and pay tribute to the victims.

The Benefits of a Free Walking Tour

One of the greatest advantages of the Free Walking Tour Sachsenhausen is
that it allows you to have a knowledgeable guide to navigate through the
site. These guides are often historians or individuals with a deep
understanding of the history and significance of Sachsenhausen. Their
expertise will greatly enhance your experience by providing valuable
insights and answering any questions you may have.

Furthermore, the tour is entirely free, which makes it accessible to
anyone, regardless of their budget. However, it is customary to tip the
guides at the end of the tour to show appreciation for their time and
knowledge.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Free Walking Tour Sachsenhausen typically lasts around three hours and
covers the most significant areas of the former concentration camp. Here
are some of the highlights you can expect:

• Main Gate (Arbeit macht frei)

  Your tour will begin at the main gate, where you’ll be introduced to
  the history of the camp and the horrific slogan “Arbeit macht frei”
  (Work sets you free) that greeted prisoners as they entered.

• Prisoners’ Quarters

  You’ll explore the prisoners’ living quarters and gain an understanding
  of the inhumane conditions they endured. Witnessing the cramped
  barracks and imagining their daily lives will evoke a deep sense of
  empathy.

• Station Z and the Execution Trench

  Station Z is the site of Sachsenhausen’s execution facilities, including
  gallows, crematoriums, and an execution trench. The guide will share
  stories about the victims and the methods of execution used by the Nazis.

This is just a glimpse of what you’ll experience on the Free Walking Tour
Sachsenhausen. The tour covers more areas of the camp, such as the infirmary,
the pathology building, and the museum, where you can further deepen your
understanding of the camp’s history.

Preparing for Your Visit

When planning your visit to the Free Walking Tour Sachsenhausen, there are a
few essential things to keep in mind:

• Wear comfortable shoes: The tour involves walking over
  uneven terrain and can be physically demanding, so make sure you wear
  appropriate footwear.

• Bring water and snacks: Since the tour lasts three hours,
  it’s a good idea to bring water and some snacks to keep you energized
  throughout.

• Listen attentively: Pay close attention to the guide’s
  narration and ask questions to gain better insight into the historical
  context of Sachsenhausen.

• Be respectful: Remember that Sachsenhausen was a place of
  immense suffering, so maintain appropriate behavior and respect the
  solemnity of the site.

In Conclusion

The Free Walking Tour Sachsenhausen offers an educational and deeply moving
experience for visitors. By exploring the former Nazi concentration camp,
you’ll gain a better understanding of the Holocaust and pay tribute to the
victims. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you can expect a
comprehensive tour that will leave a lasting impact on your perspective of
history.