Berlin is a city with a rich and fascinating history when it comes to World War II. One thing you will always be interested in seeing are these historic bunkers that were so important during the war. One of the most interesting ways to explore Berlin’s past, and to take a step back in time, is to go on a city’s bunkers walking tour. This blog post will provide you with an insight to the most important parts of Berlin’s historic bunkers and give you some tips how to enjoy the most of your walking tour.
What made Berlin’s historic bunkers important?
During World War II, the Allied forces bombarded Berlin causing it to be heavily bombed and bunkers became an essential part to preserve the citizens of the city. Made to be the safe places to hide from air raids and bombardments, these bunkers were indeed testimony to the fact that Germany was determined to protect its civilians. Today these historic bunkers stand as a memory of what poor people went through and also have an immeasurable amount of historical importance.
Types of bunkers in Berlin
Berlin offers a large number of such historic bunkers that tell their own story. Here are a few notable ones:
Air Raid Shelters
The air raid shelters were designed for the civilians to protect them during the air raids. Those bunkers were underground and had rudimentary elements of life to support people for a long duration. Today some of these air raid shelters remain open for visitors to see what people lived through in wartime.
Flak Towers
Large concrete structures built as flak towers to protect against air attacks were built in Berlin. Anti aircraft guns were housed and they also acted as air raid shelters. The Flak tower is a unique place that offers an opportunity to explore the defensive strategies of WWII.
Führerbunker
Adolf Hitler’s last days were spent in the underground bunker complex called Führerbunker. The original bunker is no longer, but the location means something historical. The skelton of the bunker where Adolf Hitler took refuge is marked by plaques and display boards atop which is delivered a sobering reminder that an era has come to an end.
Planning your walking tour
Since you know what types of bunkers are out there you can now create your walking tour. Therefore, here are some important points to consider:
Research and choose your route
Then prioritize the bunkers you want to visit based on their historic significance and as much as possible the amount of effort required to visit them. Do it with the closest ones first starting with a route that covers few sites in a day. If you want a turnkey experience then consider joining a guided tour.
Check opening hours and accessibility
Not all bunkers, however, are public and before going there you must check opening hours. Also, think of how accessible the bunkers are if you are a mobility concern. Unlike the bunkers, some may have stairs or other limitations.
Use maps and guides
Find it and be able to write it with the use of maps, guidebooks, or online resources. Pin the locations of the bunkers you are going to visit and use public transportation or walk routes so that you will not use your energy and time at the same time.
Visiting some of Berlin’s historic bunkers
Here are a few rules of thumb for watching the historic bunkers in Berlin:
- Remember that the bunkers have historical importance and should be respected. Do not vandalize or else act in a manner that could damage the sites.
- If you’re visiting accessible bunkers, follow the instructions given. In some areas access has been restricted or boarding and shuttle service provided to insure visitor safety.
- Guided tours: Checking out guided tours is an excellent solution to gain more understanding of the bunkers’ history and the events that happened therein. Context and answers to any questions you might have can be provided by knowledgeable guides.
- Use materials: Bunkers may include interpretive materials such as exhibi Read and engage with these materials to have a better picture of the site.
The walking tour to Berlin’s historic bunkers gives you a unique and a educative way. These sites offer a look into the brutal past and remember the city’s people’s courage in the face of World War II from air raid shelters to the remaining of Hitler’s bunker. With walking shoes, a map and set off on an unforgettable tour of history!
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