Visit the secret GDR bunker: Experience a piece of history live!

Visit the secret GDR bunker: Experience a piece of history live!

In the picturesque Brandenburg region, not far from Freudenberg, there is a former bunker of the GDR Interior Ministry, which was intended as a strategic command center in the event of war during the Cold War. In the coming weeks, those interested will have the opportunity to visit this historic site, which is an exciting opportunity for many.

The leadership bunker, which received its final appearance in 1986, was designed to maintain public life in the GDR. “The order and security of the country should be guaranteed from here in the event of an emergency,” explains Hans-Jürgen Herget, who is involved in organizing the tours. What is particularly noteworthy is that this bunker is only a few meters underground and was classified as not nuclear bomb-proof. Herget clarifies: “He had the lowest security status at that time.”

Insights into technology and history

Inside the bunker, numerous mysterious systems and technical rooms can be discovered. Around 400 telephone lines lead to various authorities, including the police and the National People's Army, but also to important companies and fire departments. The surprisingly well-preserved ventilation and cooling systems as well as a ministerial room create an authentic experience of the past. The entire complex consists of three facilities connected by tunnels and is designed to accommodate up to 200 people. Rumors say that Interior Minister Friedrich Dickel was even present here twice during exercises.

The tours take place on selected weekends of the year, specifically on October 12th and 13th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Before the tours, visitors are offered a short lecture about the history and technology of the bunker, which is an interesting introduction to the topic. Please note that there are no fixed times for the tours.

Visitors are asked to wear sturdy shoes and warm clothing as the interior rooms are partly dark. Flashlights are recommended to make exploring the bunker easier. These tours are also suitable for children as long as they are accompanied by an adult. The exact address of the bunker is not shown, but the route from the Freudenberg village church is well signposted.

This unique experience not only offers a journey into the past, but also stimulates reflection on the history of the GDR and the political circumstances of that time. Such insights are particularly valuable for those who want to understand and preserve their country's history. A visit to the bunker can therefore be seen as a special opportunity to experience an authentic part of German history up close. For more information, see the current reporting on www.welt.de.