The Ravensbrück Memorial, known locally as Mahn- und Gedenkstätte Ravensbrück, stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of one of the largest women's concentration camps of the Nazi regime. Nestled in the serene landscape of Fürstenberg/Havel in Brandenburg, Germany, this memorial site offers a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II and serves as a beacon of remembrance and education.
Ravensbrück was established in 1939, initially designed to hold female political prisoners from Germany and Austria. As the war progressed, the camp's population diversified dramatically, with women, men, and children from various Nazi-occupied territories being forcibly brought to its gates. The camp became a microcosm of the horrors of the Holocaust, with an estimated 130,000 women and 20,000 men imprisoned here. Tragically, around 28,000 of these individuals perished due to starvation, forced labor, medical experiments, and executions.
After the camp's liberation by the Red Army in 1945, the site was not used as an internment camp like others such as Sachsenhausen or Buchenwald. Instead, it became a military base for Soviet troops, which restricted public access for many years. It wasn't until the early 1950s that efforts began to transform Ravensbrück into a site of remembrance.
The transformation of Ravensbrück into a memorial began in earnest in 1952 when the Socialist Unity Party of Germany (SED) decided to establish national memorials at Ravensbrück, Buchenwald, and Sachsenhausen. The Ravensbrück Memorial was officially inaugurated in 1959, marked by a ceremony attended by thousands, including survivors and dignitaries. The centerpiece of this memorial is the striking bronze sculpture Tragende by Will Lammert, symbolizing the resilience and suffering of the camp's victims.
Over the years, the memorial has expanded to include various exhibitions and educational resources. In 1993, it became part of the Brandenburg Memorials Foundation, ensuring its preservation and continued relevance as a site of historical importance.
Visitors to the Ravensbrück Memorial can explore a range of exhibitions that delve into the harrowing history of the camp. The main exhibition, The Women's Concentration Camp Ravensbrück – History and Memory, offers a comprehensive overview of the camp's history through artifacts, photographs, and personal testimonies. The exhibition is housed in the former commandant's office, providing a chilling backdrop to the narratives within.
Additional exhibitions explore the roles of the female guards, the SS personnel, and the forced labor conditions endured by the prisoners. These displays provide a multifaceted view of life within Ravensbrück, highlighting the complexity and brutality of the camp's operations.
As you walk the grounds, you'll encounter various memorials dedicated to specific groups of victims. The Wall of Nations stands as a testament to the international scope of the camp's prisoner population, while the mass graves nearby offer a sobering reminder of the lives lost. The site also includes memorial rooms dedicated to Jewish prisoners, Sinti and Roma, and those involved in resistance activities.
One of the most moving aspects of the memorial is its integration with the natural landscape. The Tragende sculpture overlooks the tranquil Schwedtsee lake, creating a powerful juxtaposition between the serene environment and the site's tragic history. This setting invites reflection and contemplation, encouraging visitors to consider the enduring impact of the Holocaust.
The Ravensbrück Memorial is not only a site of remembrance but also a center for education and dialogue. The memorial offers thematic tours, project days, and multi-day seminars designed to engage visitors of all ages in discussions about history, memory, and human rights. These programs aim to foster a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and its relevance to contemporary issues.
The International Youth Meeting Center, located in the former guards' houses, serves as a hub for historical and political education. Here, young people from around the world gather to learn about the past and discuss ways to promote tolerance and understanding in today's society.
A visit to the Ravensbrück Memorial is a profound experience, offering a unique opportunity to connect with history on a personal level. The site's thoughtful design and comprehensive exhibitions provide a respectful and informative environment for visitors to reflect on the lessons of the past.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or someone seeking to pay your respects, the Ravensbrück Memorial offers a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. It stands as a testament to the importance of remembrance, ensuring that the stories of those who suffered and perished are never forgotten.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
