The Jewish Museum in Berlin

© Jewish Museum Berlin, photo: Jens Ziehe

The Jewish Museum Berlin is a remarkable institution that is deeply committed to conveying the rich history and culture of the Jewish people. The museum, which opened in 2001, is located in an impressive building in Kreuzberg designed by the world-renowned Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind. The architectural structure of the building itself, with its zig-zag shape, is an artistic interpretation of Jewish history and experience, making the visit a unique and thought-provoking experience. The permanent exhibition is free and was fully renovated in 2020, receiving positive reviews in the German media.

The museum is the largest Jewish museum in Europe and presents a comprehensive collection of exhibits that span centuries of German Jewish history, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can explore themes such as cultural heritage, religious practices, and the tragic events during the Holocaust. The exhibits are carefully curated, combining artifacts, photographs, and interactive elements to provide an in-depth understanding of the complex Jewish heritage.

© Jewish Museum Berlin, photo: Yves Sucksdorff

The Past Meets the Present

One of the most remarkable elements of the museum is its Holocaust Tower, a structure that symbolizes the darkest chapter in Jewish history. Visitors walk through a labyrinthine space with slanted walls that creates a claustrophobic and disorienting experience, reflecting the chaos experienced by the victims of the Holocaust.

The Jewish Museum Berlin manages to create an emotional connection between the past and the present by integrating personal stories and experiences. This makes the museum a place that not only educates but also touches the hearts of its visitors.

While the museum generally receives praise for its unique approach to presenting Jewish history, some visitors may find it challenging due to its intense and emotional content. Additionally, the complex exhibits can be overwhelming for those who are not familiar with Jewish culture and history.

A Dark History

The first Jewish museum in Berlin was founded on January 24, 1933, six days before the Nazis officially came to power. The museum was established next to the New Synagogue on Oranienburger Straße and, in addition to curating Jewish history, also showcased collections of modern Jewish art. The aim was to use the museum as a means to revive Jewish creativity and demonstrate that Jewish history was a living history.

The original museum was closed during Kristallnacht on November 10, 1938, by the Gestapo, and the museum’s inventory was confiscated. After several decades, interest in a Jewish museum in Berlin was reignited, and in 1988, the Berlin government announced an anonymous competition for the design of the new museum. Daniel Libeskind’s vision was chosen in 1989, and construction of the $65 million museum began in November 1992, after the project had been temporarily canceled in 1991 to finance a bid for the 2020 Summer Olympics. The museum was completed in 1999 and officially opened on September 9, 2001, attracting over 15 million visitors since then, making it one of the most visited museums in Germany.

Overall, the Jewish Museum Berlin is a captivating institution that manages to convey the depth of Jewish heritage in a thought-provoking and emotional way. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand and appreciate the rich history and culture of the Jewish people.

ANOHA – The Jewish Children’s Museum

If you have children aged about 1 to 10 years, or are simply curious, it’s a great idea to plan a visit to the Jewish Children’s Museum “ANOHA” across the street, which presents the story of Noah’s Ark in a child-friendly manner. Admission is also free, but if you’re not ready to stand in line for at least a good hour, it’s advisable to book tickets online, which I highly recommend.

Guided Tour on Jewish History in Berlin

If you’re interested in a guided tour in Berlin with an native english speaking guide, where you can see the Jewish neighborhood, cultural heritage, and memorials, you can read more about my guided tours here on my site or write to me at olsentoursberlin@gmail.com, and I can arrange a tour tailored to your wishes.