The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, often simply called the Holocaust Memorial, is a powerful and thought-provoking landmark in the heart of Berlin. Unlike any traditional monument, it is an experiential art piece designed by architect Peter Eisenman. You are immediately struck by a vast grid of 2,711 concrete slabs, or stelae, spread over a rolling, uneven field. As you walk from the sunlit periphery into the deeper, towering corridors, the ground descends, and the grey pillars rise above you, creating a disorienting and sombre atmosphere. The uneven ground and the echoing silence between the blocks are intentionally designed to evoke feelings of loss, confusion, and isolation. Beneath the field lies the Ort der Information (Place of Information), a gripping underground information centre that documents the fates of countless individuals and families through personal stories, photographs, and diaries, putting a heartbreakingly human face to the immense scale of the tragedy.
The Basics
Officially named the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, this site is Germany’s central Holocaust memorial. It was inaugurated in 2005 after a long period of discussion and construction. The above-ground Field of Stelae is always open, free to access, and encourages quiet, personal reflection. The underground "Place of Information" is a crucial part of the visit. Here, you'll find four thematic rooms that detail the historical context through personal stories, families, and locations. It houses a moving exhibition that chronologically documents the persecution and extermination of European Jews. Admission to this information centre is ticketed, but it is a profoundly informative experience that adds essential context to the abstract art above. The entire site serves as a permanent, powerful reminder and a place of learning for all generations.
Things to Know Before You Go
Respect is paramount. This is a memorial site, not a playground. While the field of stelae invites exploration, visitors are asked to be mindful and avoid running, shouting, or climbing on the blocks (though walking on them is common and accepted). The information centre is highly recommended; allocate at least an hour for it. It is emotionally heavy but incredibly valuable. Photography is permitted in the field, but be discreet and avoid posed or disrespectful pictures. Inside the information centre, photography is prohibited to protect the dignity of the victims. The information centre has restrooms and a bookshop. The memorial is wheelchair accessible, with designated paths through the stelae and full access to the underground centre. It is an outdoor experience, so dress for the weather.
How to Get There
The memorial’s location is incredibly central, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Berlin. The address is Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin. The closest U-Bahn (subway) station is U-Bahn Brandenburger Tor (U5 line). The closest S-Bahn (urban train) stations are S-Bahn Brandenburger Tor (S1, S2, S25, S26) and S-Bahn Potsdamer Platz (S1, S2, S25, S26). Numerous bus lines, including the 100 and 200, stop nearby at Brandenburger Tor or Potsdamer Platz. If you are walking from the Brandenburg Gate, it is just a one-minute stroll south. Its proximity to other major sites like the Reichstag Building and Tiergarten park makes it a simple addition to any central Berlin walking tour.
When to Get There
The open-air Field of Stelae is accessible 24 hours a day, every day. For the most contemplative and crowd-free experience above ground, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. The light at these times also casts long shadows through the stones, enhancing the site's powerful atmosphere. The Ort der Information (Place of Information) has specific opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (October to March it closes at 5:00 pm). It is closed on Mondays. Last admission is 45 minutes before closing. It’s wise to check the official website for any changes on public holidays. The memorial is a year-round destination, but remember it is an outdoor experience, so be prepared for rain, snow, or sun.
Day Trips from Berlin
While the memorial itself is a single-site visit in central Berlin, it is the perfect anchor for a profound day of historical exploration. You can easily combine it with other significant sites to form a meaningful itinerary. Start at the Topography of Terror documentation centre, built on the site of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters. From there, walk to Checkpoint Charlie and then up to the Gendarmenmarkt. Afterwards, head to the Holocaust Memorial, spending time both above and below ground. Afterwards, a short walk leads you to the Reichstag Building (book free tickets online well in advance) and the Brandenburg Gate. This route creates a powerful day trip focused on 20th-century history, from the rise of the Nazi regime to the Holocaust and the Cold War division of the city, all within a compact, walkable area.
