I had never pictured myself in Berlin.
But this was our third visit in as many years. It grabs you. You are astounded by what you see then feel, but more by what you learn about remorse and transformation. The history is troubling, obscene. But the turnaround and sincere efforts of renewal are affirming.
Everywhere are signs of sorrow, defeat, and repentance in the numerous Berlin memorials.
These memorials tell the story the Jews of course, but also to Roma and Sinti (Gypsies), homosexuals, defiers of the wall, politicians against Nazis, and protesters.
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| photo by Sarah Taus |
The Monument to the Murdered Jews of Europe
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| There are 2,711 concrete slabs on almost 5 acres, varying in height. The overall effect is that of a graveyard. |
At Humboldt University. This is a sculpture of empty bookshelves below ground. Our shadows with umbrellas reflect in its ceiling.
Gleis 17
The departure track for Jews on their way to the death camps
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| photo by Sarah Taus The Garden of Exile |
Jewish Museum of Berlin designed by Daniel Libeskind
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| exhibit by Israeli sculptor Kadishman |
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| Wanasee Conference location |
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| Rosenstrasse memorial Christian wives of Jewish spouses protested their imprisonment |
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| Memorial at Reichstag for political opponents of Hitler |
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| photo by Sarah Taus |
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| straddling the footprint of the wall |
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| Brandenburg gate |
