Gedenkstätte Hohenschönhausen
The Stiftung Hohenschönhausen operates the Gedenkstätte Hohenschönhausen and is dedicated to researching and conveying the history of political persecution in the GDR. It offers educational programs, promotes historical enlightenment, and advocates for human rights and sustainability.
About Stiftung Hohenschönhausen
editThe Stiftung Hohenschönhausen operates the memorial site Berlin-Hohenschönhausen, which is located on the grounds of the former central investigative prison of the State Security of the GDR. The foundation is dedicated to researching and conveying the history of political persecution and imprisonment in the GDR. Through exhibitions, publications, and events, the public is informed about the fates of the imprisoned and the mechanisms of political repression.
Key Products and Services
editThe foundation offers a variety of educational programs, including public tours, group tours, and project days. These are often led by former political prisoners and historians to provide authentic insights into the history of the site. The memorial site houses several permanent exhibitions, such as "Incarcerated in Hohenschönhausen" and "In Forced Community," which are accessible free of charge daily. Additionally, there are inclusive and barrier-free offerings to enable access for all visitors.
Mission and Values
editThe main mission of Stiftung Hohenschönhausen is to keep the memory of the victims of political persecution in the GDR alive and to document the mechanisms of oppression. The foundation places great importance on historical enlightenment, education, and the promotion of critical awareness towards authoritarian regimes. It advocates for transparency, inclusion, and the protection of human rights.
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editStiftung Hohenschönhausen is committed to sustainable practices by developing digital offerings and virtual tours to enable access to history even without physical presence. These initiatives help reduce the ecological footprint while reaching a broader audience. The foundation also promotes the use of public transportation for visiting the memorial site to support environmentally friendly mobility.
Research and Archiving
editAn essential part of the foundation's work is research on political persecutions and the archiving of eyewitness reports. The coordinating eyewitness office and the eyewitness archive play a central role in documenting and preserving personal stories that enrich historical processing. The foundation regularly publishes research findings and offers an extensive media library with videos, biographies, and publications.
Stiftung Hohenschönhausen is a significant place of remembrance and education that promotes engagement with the history of the GDR and contributes to strengthening democratic values.