Snow

German History: Berlin Wall & the Cold War Tour

A tour that will take you into Germany's past on this walking tour of the Berlin Wall. Learn about its history, its victims, its escape stories, and also about the Cold War.

Duration : 60 mins     Max Size : 50     Destination : Germany  

Category : World History     Recommended For : Schools

Subject :  

Overview

This  guided tour of the Berlin Wall memorial is a profound lesson in Germany’s history based on the heavily guarded wall that physically and ideologically divided Berlin for 28 years between 1961 and 1989. 

The wall was built by the German Democratic Republic (erstwhile East Germany) and served to cut off West Berlin from surrounding East Germany. Guard towers were placed along the concrete walls alongside which there were wide areas with anti-vehicle trenches, beds of nails and other such defences to prevent people crossing  the wall. 

Between 1961 and 1989 more than 100,000 people attempted to escape, with over 5000 succeeding to cross the wall. Several stories abound during this period in history with more than 200 people losing their lives.

A series of revolutions in East Germany ultimately resulted in the demise of the wall. Crowds of East Germans climbed over the wall joined by West Germans on the other side amidst much celebration. The fall of the wall paved the way for German reunification on the 3rd of October 1990.

On this tour you will learn about what the border entailed as you visit a reconstructed area of the no-mans-land area along with original parts of the wall that still exist. You will discover, in detail, why the wall was built, stories about the victims and also of successful escapes. The tour ends at the Chapel of reconciliation- a new structure built in the former no-mans-land-area. Using the wall as the background context, you will also gain an insight into the Cold War era.

Your Presenter

  Sarah Bonfiglioli

Sarah is originally from Australia. Having first completed a degree in Business Marketing and working in the Advertising industry she thought her future was decided. She then went on a trip to Europe and as a result stumbled upon Berlin. Having immediately fallen in love with the city, she never left! She has been sharing her love for the city with visitors for seven years now. Sarah has always been fascinated with history and finds great joy in being able to share that passion and love for Berlin with visitors from all over the world. 

How it works

Once you book this experience, we will send you a confirmation email with a link to join the session. All you need to do is click on the link on the said date and time. Please note that you do not have to download Zoom to access the session, and only need to follow the link on the date and time confirmed. You can access the session from your mobile, laptop or desktop.

What you need

You will need a stable internet connection and a mobile device (ideally a desktop or laptop) to stream the session.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel and obtain a full refund for this session until 5 days before the date of the first session.

Book this experience