Editor Pick
Deutsches Historisches Museum
- January 24, 2007
- Rated 4 of 5 by
Mandan Lynn from Smithwick, South Dakota
Talk about a lesson on Germany. There was so much information, and we only had a couple of hours to take it all in before closing time.
There are many objects relating to Germany from the very beginning. We started with the early 1900s, sort of because that's just where we ended up. It is not the most easily navigated museum. Then we worked our way back to the beginning of German time.
Captions are all in German and English. There is plenty to read. Everything is well explained. If you are a slow reader, you will want to schedule a lot more time for this museum. I found it difficult to pass anything up. I was pressed for time and trying to rush through, but every caption I saw, I had to stop and read for fear I would miss something fascinating or important to whatever caption I would read next. The artifacts are fine, but the really interesting materials are the written explanations.
We made jokes about being unable to find the exhibit concerning the years of World War II, but then we managed to locate it. And they didn't gloss over anything. We read about all facets of the war and the years following. It is a dark part of Germany's history, but it is still a part and must be presented.
I was overwhelmingly impressed by this museum. It was my travel partners' choice, as I usually opt for art museums over history museums, but I am glad I let them make the decision on which museum to visit. I have German ancestors, but never before have I been able to learn so much about their—and therefore my—history at one time.
Make sure you have a lot of time, then treat yourself to one of the best German history lessons you will ever get.
German Historical Museum
10am-6pm
Admission: 4 euro (students)
From journal Berlin: Little Time in a Big City