bunker tour ruhrgebiet

FEATURED EXPERIENCE NO. 05

Visit the site of adolf hitler's führerbunker, the nazi leader's subterranean sanctuary and final command centre.

Did you know...

The apartment buildings surrounding the site of the Führerbunker now were built in the 1980s by the East German government, as luxury apartment houses for important members of East German society.

The Führerbunker

• Gertrud-Kolmar-Strasse, 10117 Berlin
• S-bahn Brandenburger Tor

Some useful links related to the Brandenburg Gate:

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Walk Through The Brandenburg Gate

Explore The State Musems On Museum Island

Visit The Berlin TV Tower – The Fernsehturm

Cross The Cold War Border At Checkpoint Charlie

Visit The Site Of Adolf Hitler’s Führerbunker

Visit The Reichstag Cupola At Night

Explore The Forum Fridericianum

Journey Into The Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe

Step Inside The Neue Wache

Explore The Former Jewish Quarter – Spandauer Vorstadt

Visit The Remains Of The Berlin Wall

Walk Across The Bridge Of Spies

Explore The Topography Of Terror

Enter The Palace Of Tears – The Tränenpalast

Step Inside The Berlin Olympic Stadium

Explore Erich Mielke’s Office At The Stasi Museum

Walk Along Karl Marx Allee

Visit The Oldest Church In Berlin – The Nikolaikirche

Visit The Grave Of Frederick The Great

Walk Through The Ruins Of Anhalter Bahnhof

Stand On The Platz Des Volksaufstandes

Visit The German Resistance Museum

Visit The Soviet War Memorial In The Tiergarten

See The Georg Elser Memorial On Wilhelmstrasse

Step Inside The Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtnis Kirche

Visit The Gleis 17 Memorial

Visit The Schloss Charlottenburg Mausoleum

Explore The Interbau – IBA 57

Visit Cecilienhof – Site Of The Potsdam Conference

Ride The Fastest Elevator In Europe

Visit The Soviet War Memorial In Treptower Park

Visit The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial

Visit The Ravensbrück Concentration Camp Memorial

Visit Karlshorst – The Site Of The German Surrender

Visit The Socialists Cemetery – Zentralfriedhof Friedrichsfelde

Visit The Soviet War Memorial In Pankow

Visit the Seelow Heights Memorial

Visit The Commonwealth War Cemetery

Cross The Bösebrücke At Night

Explore The Allied Museum In Dahlem

Visit The Brandenburg T4 Euthanasia Memorial

Visit The Jewish Cemetery In Weissensee

Explore The Volkspark Friedrichshain Flak Tower

WELCOME to the Bunkermuseum Oberhausen Our museum is located in a former civil defense bunker remaining from the 2nd World War. The building is still immediately recognizable as a high structure bunker.

Opening times  Wednesdays and Sundays 11am to 6pm, closed on public holidays

Entry  free of charge

Summer break 18. July – 17. August 2024

The next guided tours of the permanent exhibition, for which registrations are still possible, will take place on

19 June 2024 10 July 2024 21 August 2024 25 September 2024

all at 6 pm.

Due to the limited number of participants, advance registration is required at 0208.6070531-0 or [email protected] .

Guided tours and workshops are also available by appointment outside regular opening hours and during the winter and summer breaks.

From the ‚Blitzkrieg‘ in Europe to aerial combat along the Ruhr

Permanent exhibition In our revised exhibition “Home Front” we examine the story of the aerial war of the Second World War in the Ruhr District and Europe. At the same time, clues show the connection of the destructive and conquest war the Nazis started in nearly all of Europe with the allied aerial combat along the Ruhr River.

Guided Tours Tours of the museum and the exhibition are suitable from 16 years onwards. Please note that due to the narrow and small spaces the group size has to be limited.

The next guided tours of the permanent exhibition, for which registrations are still possible, will take place on 19 June, 10 July, 21 August and 25 September 2024, each at 6 pm. Due to restricted numbers, booking is essential.

Bookings Via Telephone: +49 (0) 208 6070531-0 or [email protected]

School Tours We are offering curriculum based workshops from 9th grade (15/16 years) onwards, please see educational offering .

Educational offering

Workshop Aerial war in Oberhausen. Subjects will meet the curriculum of the local history in NRW. Duration 2-4 hours. Suitable for pupils from 9th-13th grade (Age 15/16 – Age 18/19). Workshops can be held outside of opening hours or during school time.

Content Aerial safety and aerial war influenced the “Home Front” during the Second World War substantially. This workshop deals with the experiences of Oberhausen’s citizens as well as a European perspective. The attack tactics and politics of the Nazi Party as well as the Allied Forces are discussed. Additional focus is given to current conflicts and wars.

 Participation is free of charge

Booking and Appointments Teaching Team of the Museum, phone 49 (0)208 6070531-11, e-mail:  [email protected]

Further information in our brochure and at www.gedenkhalle-oberhausen.de

If you are interested in a printed copy of our brochure, please contact us.

Stolpersteine

Stumbling Blocks

One Stone. One Name. One Person.

One Stone Artist Gunter Demnig has spent the last 25 years laying „Stolpersteine“ as a memorial to all victoms of the Nazis. In Oberhausen, these „Stolpersteine“ are part of the city since 2008.

One Name A person is only forgotten, once his or her name is forgotten. The personalized „Stolpersteine“ remind of the people who used to live where we now live.

One Person If you would like to actively participate in the laying of „Stolpersteine“ please contact us at +49 (0) 208 6070531-0 or at [email protected]

Information Further information on the „Stolpersteine“ in Oberhausen can be found at www.gedenkhalle-oberhausen.de

Publications

A selection of available publications

Zwangsarbeit Andries ter Brugge: Zwangsarbeit und Befreiung. Erinnerungen an Oberhausen 1943 bis 1945 (Fokus Stadtgesellschaft / Studien der Gedenkhalle Oberhausen, Bd. 3), Hrsg. Clemens Heinrichs, Verlag Karl Maria Laufen, Oberhausen 2019, ISBN 9783874683944

Schutzraum Katalog zur gleichnamigen Ausstellung, Hrsg. Stadt Oberhausen, Bunkermuseum 2007

Bunkerwelten Christina Kubisch: Arkadien, Katalog zur gleichnamigen Ausstellung, Hrsg. Stadt Oberhausen, Bunkermuseum 2003

Telephone +49 (0)208 6070531-0 Fax +49 (0)208 6070531-20

E-Mail: [email protected]

Opening hours

Wednesday and Sundays 11am to 6pm Closed on public holidays

Administration

Stadt Oberhausen izgb – Informationszentrum Gedenkhalle/Bunkermuseum

Am Kaisergarten 52 46049 Oberhausen

Administration,

Visitor administration.

Dirk Klasen

Telephone +49 (0)208 6070531-11 E-Mail: [email protected]

Educational Offerings,

Stolperstein-project.

Claudia Stein M.A.

Telephone +49(0)208 6070531-14 Mobile +49 (0)151 74671909 E-Mail: [email protected]

Head of the Bunkermuseum/

Gedenkhalle oberhausen.

Clemens Heinrichs M.A.

Telephone +49 (0)208 6070531-13 Mobile +49 (0)15174671018 E-Mail: clemens.heinrichs@ oberhausen.de

Unsere beliebte Führung

Führungsinhalt.

Während der Führung gehen Sie auf Zeitreise in den Kalten Krieg und 'erleben' einen Ernstfall. Das Szenario: Atombomben fallen auf das Ruhrgebiet. Sie schlüpfen in die Rolle der Bunkerbesatzung und werden vom Leiter der Befehlsstelle mit Ihrem Arbeitsplatz vertraut gemacht.

Sie erfahren, welche Gefahren durch Atombomben drohen und wie der Bunker gegen diese schützt. Als Mitglied des Krisenstabs stellen Sie fest, welche Gebiete betroffen sind und entscheiden wie und wo Hilfe geleistet wird.

Nebenbei wird Ihnen der Alltag im Bunker sowie die Technik erläutert. Ein Großteil der Einrichtung ist noch funktionstüchtig und an einigen Stellen können Sie sogar selbst Geräte und Anlagen bedienen.

Wichtige Hinweise

• Da ein paar Treppen zu ersteigen sind, ist die Führung für Personen im Rollstuhl nicht geeignet.
• Die Temperatur im Bunker liegt bei winterlichen 7 Grad. Denken Sie an warme Kleidung und feste Schuhe!
• Da man im Bunker leicht stolpern oder anstoßen kann, müssen Sie vor dem Betreten einen Haftungsverzicht unterschreiben.
• Fotografieren während der Führung ist nicht gestattet.
• Tiere sind im Bunker nicht erlaubt.

Unterschied offene Führungen/extra Termine

Offene Führungen finden regelmäßig an festen Terminen, freitags und samstags, jeweils 16:00 Uhr statt. Jeder kann an diesen Führungen teilnehmen; eine Anmeldung ist erforderlich damit wir genügend Personal vor Ort haben.

Extra Termine für Gruppen können mit uns gesondert vereinbart werden; dabei veranstalten wir für Ihre Gruppe (ab 10 Personen) eine eigene Führung.

Die Führungen haben den gleichen Inhalt; auf Interessensgebiete der Gruppe, beispielsweise die Technik im Bunker, kann hier näher eingegangen werden.

Kaffee und Kuchen im Bunker

Bei extra gebuchten Gruppenführungen können wir ab 30 Teilnehmern zusätzlich Kaffee und Kuchen nach der Führung anbieten. Hierzu wird in beheizten Räumen des Bunkers für Sie gedeckt. Bei heißem Kaffee (Tee/Kakao) und leckerem Kuchen kann das Erlebte besprochen und noch offene Fragen beantwortet werden. Ihr Gästeführer freut sich auf rege Gespräche. Vorherige Buchung erforderlich.

Veranstaltungsdaten

Veranstaltungstermin(e), anmeldung (offene führung), anfrage (extra führung).

• Veranstaltungen

• Lost Places

Der verlassene Bunker im Ruhrgebiet (NRW)

• 1 Die Suche nach dem Bunkereingang und der Abstieg
• 2 Schlechte Luft im Luftschutzbunker
• 3.1 Der "Zauberbunker"
• 4 Lage, Daten und Fakten – Nein, keine genaue Adresse

Lost Place: Der Zauberbunker, eine verlassene Bunker-Anlage in NRW. Hunderte Meter unterirdischer Tunnel und Bunker-Stollen unterhalb einer großen Stadt im Ruhrgebiet. Der Eingang: Eine schlichte Stahlfalltür, von der aus eine lange Treppe ins Herz des Bunkers führt, tief unter die Erde. Wasser fließt hinab, die Luft ist feucht und warm. Tropfsteine hängen von den Decken. Ein Lost Place wie wir ihn noch bei keiner unserer Urbex-Touren gesehen haben.

Freitag Abend, ich sitze zuhause – nicht so spannend. Gegen 0:30 Uhr fällt mir ein, dass mir eine sehr nette Bekannte (Danke sehr!) vor kurzem die Koordinaten zum Eingang zu einem unterirdischen Bunker in einer großen Stadt hier im Ruhrgebiet gegeben hatte – zum sogenannten Zauberbunker . Kurzerhand beschließe ich in meinem Freundeskreis herzumzufragen, ob spontan jemand Lust hat mitzukommen. Einer meiner "Urbex-Buddies" hatte tatsächlich Bock. Also Sachen gepackt, Kumpel eingesackt und los.

Nach nur etwa einer halben Stunde Fahrt – von Duisburg aus – sind wir da. Wir finden uns in einem Wohngebiet wieder, in dem so spät in der Nacht keine Menschenseele mehr zu sehen ist. Nur ein paar Betrunkene eiern durch den angrenzenden Park. Dieser ist auch unser Ziel, da sich dort der Eingang des Bunkers befinden soll.

Die Suche nach dem Bunkereingang und der Abstieg

Den Haupteingang finden wir dann auch direkt in genau dem Gebüsch, in dem die Koordinaten ihn versprochen hatten: Zubetoniert, fuck! Man kann durch ein paar Belüftungslöcher in der Wand ins Innere schauen – eine Treppe geht ganz schön tief runter. Reinkommen kann man aber nicht, weswegen wir die nähere Umgebung nach weiteren Eingängen absuchen. Kein Erfolg.

Man sieht aber, dass die Bunkeranlage in eine Art Hang, an dessen oberen Ende sich ein großes öffentliches Gebäude befindet, hineingebaut ist. Vielleicht führt von dort oben ja ein Eingang hinab in den Bunker ? Auch hier: Fehlanzeige.

Aufgrund eines sehr netten Menschen, welcher uns dann auf Anfrage ein Foto des Eingangs sendet – es handelt sich um eine Stahlfalltür nebst Belüftungsrohr – finden wir den Bunkereingang dann aber doch. Er lässt sich tatsächlich aufklappen – die Vorfreude steigt immens!

Wir zücken unsere Taschenlampen, klappen die Falltür auf und klettern an der Leiter hinab ins Dunkel. Über uns schließen wir die Bunkertür wieder. Ganz schön schwer, das Ding.

Schlechte Luft im Luftschutzbunker

Das erste was uns unten – schon im "Abstiegsstollen" des Zauberbunkers – auffällt ist, dass die Luft in den alten Luftschutzstollen extrem warm, feucht und teilweise sogar nebelig ist. Ganz anders, als wir es aus vergleichbaren unterirdischen Anlagen kennen.

Eine Treppe führt nach unten, wir folgen ihr. Prompt kommen wir an einem Schacht, durch den eine Menge Wasser rauscht, vorbei. Wahrscheinlich ist die Anlage in irgendeiner Form mit der Regenwasserkanalisation verbunden. Weswegen es so warm dort unten war, erklärt es allerdings nicht. Hat jemand eine Idee?

Weiter geht's: Nach einem weiteren kleinen Abstieg, vorbei an dem Wasserbecken und einer ersten Abbiegung finden wir uns im Hauptstollen des Bunkers wieder.

Je tiefer wir in die Tunnel vordringen, desto schlechter wird die Luft. Nach ein paar hundert Metern bekomme ich ziemliche Beklemmungsgefühle: Man liest ja hin und wieder von CO2-Vergiftungen oder irgendwelchen geruchslosen Gasen, die sich in solchen Stollen sammeln. Meine Beine fühlen sich fast so matschig an, wie es der Boden ist. Erstmal raus hier.

Wieder draußen laufen wir ein paar Meter an einer Bahnstrecke entlang. Derjenige, der uns auch das Bild des Eingangs geschickt hatte meinte dann aber, dass er problemlos fünf Stunden dort unten verbracht hatte – also wieder rein da.

Das Highlight: Tropfsteine und Treppen

Falltür auf, Falltür zu, Leiter runter, Treppe runter, am Wasserbecken entlang, um die Ecke, den Hauptstollen entlang. Wir stehen wieder dort, wo wir vor einer halben Stunde waren. Diesmal gehen wir weiter. Links und rechts zweigen diverese Gänge ab, viele stehen mehr unter Wasser, manche weniger. Die meisten sind Sackgassen. Einige erkunden wir, andere nicht.

Oben vermuten wir einen weiteren Eingang, evtl. den zubetonierten, welcher am Anfang fast für Enttäuschung sorgte. Frische Luft, hoffen wir. Also weiter nach oben.

Hier war wirklich mal einer der Bunkereingänge, jedoch ist er nun komplett dicht. Da ist es wieder, das beklemmende Gefühl. Tief unter der Erde, am Ende eines langen Bunkerstollens mit verschlossenem Eingang. Igitt.

Der "Zauberbunker"

Mittlerweile ist es knapp halb vier Uhr nachts. Wir gehen wieder zurück, die Treppe hinab und erkunden noch den ein oder anderen Gang.

Der Boden der tieferliegenden Bunkergänge ist bedeckt mit gelb-orangem Matsch, von der Decke hängen lange, dünne Tropfsteine – vom Boden wachsen sie dagenen wie kleine, dicke Vulkankrater empor. Dies und die komplett von Sedimenten bedeckte Treppe erklären zu genüge, warum der Bunker in "Urbex-Kreisen" der Zauberbunker genannt wird. Die diesige, warme Luft tut ihr übriges dazu.

Allmählich machen wir uns auf dem Heimweg: Unsere Klamotten sehen aus wie sau und und wir sind total durchnässt, aber es hat sich definitiv gelohnt! Nur um wirklich gute Fotos schießen zu können, war ich wohl etwas zu nervös – bitte verzeiht ;) Aber ich denke um einen Eindruck von der Bunkeranlage bekommen zu können reicht es.

Lage, Daten und Fakten – Nein, keine genaue Adresse

Bei diesem Bunker handelt es sich um einen Luftschutzbunker, welcher von der sogenannten Organisation Todt – die Typen, die die Bunker von der Normandie bis hoch nach Norwegen gebaut haben – im Jahr 1943 erbaut wurde, da die Luftangriffe der Alliierten auf Duisburg, Dortmund, Essen und co. Zu jener Zeit immer heftiger wurden.

Neben den bekannteren, kastenförmigen Hochbunkern sind solche Luftschutz-Stollen eigentlich ziemlich typisch für das Ruhrgebiet – zwei ähnliche Bunker unterhalb einer Industrieanlage haben wir schon an anderer Stelle im Ruhrpott erkundet.

Die genaue Adresse des Bunkers werde ich hier natürlich nicht öffentlich schreiben, aber er befindet sich unterhalb einer großen Stadt im Ruhrgebiet – nein, nicht Duisburg ;) Dass sich in der Nähe ein großes, öffentliches Gebäude befindet, welches wohl auch schon zur Nazizeit dort stand, könnte durchaus entscheidend für die Erbauung des Bunkers an genau diesem Ort gewesen sein. Heute ist hier ein Wohngebiet.

Am meisten fasziniert hat mich – neben den Tropfsteinen und der in die Tiefe führenden Treppe – die schiere Größe. Wir waren knapp 1 1/2 Stunden dort unten und haben längst nicht alles gesehen. Alleine, dass es mindestens(!) drei Eingänge zu der Bunkeranlage gibt, lässt schon auf die Ausmaße schließen: Der zubetonierte vom Anfang, der durch den wir rein sind und der, der komplett dicht war und den wir nur von innen gesehen haben.

Einfach toll!

Und natürlich hoffe ich, dass euch – die diesmal leider nicht ganz so zahlreichen – Bilder genauso gut gefallen, wie mir der Bunker!

Nachtrag: Mich hat gerade – noch am Tag der Veröffentlichung dieses Artikels – die Nachricht erreicht, dass die Falltür nun fest verschlossen ist. Ein dickes Vorhängeschloss blockiert den Eingang. Schade, da waren wir wohl die letzten, die den Bunker zu Gesicht bekamen, bevor er zugeschüttet wird. Das soll nämlich noch dieses Jahr passieren. Tut mir leid für alle, die noch hin wollten.

Ruhrpott. 28 Jahre alt. Fotografiert gerne und klettert an verlassenen Orten herum.

Der erste "Lost Place" auf dem ich herumgeklettert bin, war das Krupp-Stahlwerk in Duisburg – vor ganzen 15 Jahren.

Fotografie interessiert mich seit etwa 2011. In dem Jahr habe ich mir auch die erste vernünftige Kamera besorgt. Wirklich los gings dann mit der Pentax K-5 – mittlerweile ist es eine Nikon D610.

Und wenn ich nicht gerade fotografiere, oder in alten Gebäuden herumkraksel, studiere ich Psychologie im 6. Semester.

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4 Kommentare

Hi guten Abend,

den würde man besser wieder instandsetzen, denn er wird bestimmt noch benötigt!!

Hoffen wir mal, dass es nicht so kommt.

Aber ich gehe auch eher nicht davon aus, dass sowas in nächster Zeit gebraucht wird... :D

Fänds eher cool, wenn sowas museumsmäßig begehbar gemacht werden würde, statt es zuzuschütten.

Ist das der Bunker im Essener Moltkeviertel, der jetzt verfüllt wird?

Moltkeviertel in Essen? Bunker? Verfüllt? Nie von gehört ;)

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Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Germany , Misunderstood Destinations

Berlin Underground Tours – Secret City War Bunkers and Escape Tunnels

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Berlin underground tours are an alternative way to understand the city’s complex history, where you can view war bunkers and escape tunnels in what are now disused metro stations. 

With Berlin known for its alternative scene and unravelling of a dark past, this is a different way of seeing it. 

When researching my trip there I came across the Berlin Underworlds Association (Berliner Unterwelten) – a society for the exploration and documentation of subterranean culture. They provide expert tours of the city’s underground linked to various moments of its history, citing to “experience the history of Berlin from an unconventional perspective.” 

The Berlin Underworlds Association has been offering Berlin tunnel tours for around 15 years, so they know exactly what they are doing when it comes to the important underground structures in the city. You won’t get stuck or lost, or be breaking any laws when it comes to the exploration of abandoned areas. This has all been curated and set up exclusively. 

© Berliner Unterwelten e.V. / Holger Happel

Where Does the Berlin Underground Tour Begin?

When do the underground tours run, underground tours prices, escaping via the sewage system, escaping via the east berlin u-bahn underground stations, from underground to overground , berlin underground bunker tours, virtual tours of underground berlin, beneath berlin – understanding history , what berlin underground tours can you go on.

From war bunkers and air-raid shelters to the remains of an anti-aircraft fortress, subterranean Berlin plays host to a wealth of history. You might find it hard to choose which tour to go on, although a lot of your choice will be dependent on what tours are running on the given day.

There are currently four underground Berlin tours available:

• Tour 1: Dark Worlds
• Tour 2: From Flak Towers to Mountains of Debris
• Tour 3: Cold War Nuclear Bunkers
• Tour M: Under the Berlin Wall

I decided on Tour M, which at the time was called Breaching the Berlin Wall: Subterranean Escapes from East Berlin to West Berlin and which this article focuses on, with an overview of the main things you get to learn about and what an underground tour encompasses generally. 

Photography is not allowed, which is why I am using images granted for use by the Berliner Unterwelten. 

The majority of the tours start in or near the Gesundbrunnen station in the north of Berlin city centre and they last approximately two hours.

The main season for tours is April – October and they run from Monday – Friday between 10 AM – 4 PM and on Saturday, Sunday and National Holidays between 9 AM and 4 PM. 

You can check the website for further details and view the calendar of dates and times on the homepage . 

Surprisingly, the tours to this secret part of Berlin are relatively inexpensive.

– Tour 1, 2 and 3 are €15 

– Tour M is €18 

– The Exhibition, “Myth of Germania” is €6

Do note: The BerlinWelcomeCard is not valid for the tours but for the exhibition “Myth of Germania”.

The Berlin Wall Escape Tunnels

Many attempts were made to escape from East Berlin to the West via man-made tunnels dug deep underground, where everything from reinforcements to lighting and ventilation had to be taken into consideration.

The first tunnel was dug in December 1961 and the last one in 1985, four years before the borders were opened. Of course, some attempts had devastating consequences, when uncovered by the East German secret police (Stasi), but others were successful. The determination resulting in the same people risking their lives to dig another tunnel in a different location months later to help others.

The sewer channels were also used as escape routes, even though the Stasi had put preventative measures in place with grating systems. Initially, the grating was a square shape within the circle of the tunnel meaning there was just enough space to squeeze under – through the sewage.

The Stasi later installed oval-shaped grating and then used measures to cover the space completely. Many West Berlin students had great escape operations in place using the sewage systems to help their friends trapped in the East.

However, when escaping this way, someone had to be the ‘lid man’ with the promise of being able to go down into the hole another time. In the room underground was a manhole cover, the same as the ones you see in the city today and what would have been in use back then. The lights were turned out as if to create the atmosphere of nighttime escape and two strong guys were asked to carefully and quietly lift the heavy lid.

No problem at all, but putting it back? A disastrous mixture of the wrong balance, uneven weight and constant clanging noise. Back then, they would have been caught instantly and killed. It puts into perspective how difficult these escapes were with the Stasi on the lookout right around every corner.

With the construction of the Wall, U-Bahn lines in East Berlin were severed in their connection to the West. But as the East got poorer the two West Berlin lines (the U6 and U8) that ran through East Berlin were ‘rented out’ to the West, allowing them to pass through the East Berlin metro stations without stopping.

We were told about how people cleverly hid among the tracks and side walls ready to jump on passing trains and how the guards on the Eastern side would defect and while on duty, use this route as a means to escape.

When the Stasi lost too many men they eventually locked guards on duty in a room with a small window looking out towards the tracks. Any signs of escapees would have to be called through to a superior, by which point it was probably too late to catch them.

One of the most fascinating parts of the tour was wandering along a huge underground corridor only to emerge from a side door on the wall of the underground station, which most people probably walk past daily and don’t give a second’s thought as to what lays beneath. 

From there you are taken via the metro to my much recommended Berlin Wall viewing site, Bernauer Strasse, where more than seven escape tunnels were attempted within a short distance of just 350 meters of each other. This is also where two of the most successful Berlin Wall escape tunnels were constructed.

READ MORE: Best Place to See the Berlin Wall – the viewing locations and the questions it makes you ask. 

Rectangular panels on pavement and in the grass show the route of an escape tunnel in Berlin.

Photo exhibitions form much of the tour when underground in what is a former civil defence shelter and it brings the stories to life. You will catch a glimpse at a room that formed part of an air-raid shelter on the Berlin tunnels tour, although you will have to take the underground bunker tour (Tour 3) to delve more into that part of the history and see what relics of these hideouts are left.

Thousands were built in the city to provide safety and despite being able to see one, it’s still unknown how many more exist that have yet to be found. 

For those who don’t have the time for the tour or who want to see a reconstruction of what the bunkers that no longer exist look like, the Berlin Underworlds Association run virtual guided tours . You can learn more about the Drivers’ Bunker, the Speer Bunker, the Goebbels Bunker and the Führerbunker, supported by historical overviews, construction plans and interviews with historians and witnesses. 

The cost for the virtual tours is €9.50 and lasts approximately one hour. 

What lies beneath Berlin is well worth viewing. We take riding a metro system for granted without realising how instrumental it was for those planning escape, those seeking shelter and those harbouring secrets.

The guide was both passionate and knowledgeable about the history and expertly clued up on the facts, figures and questions presented by the city’s complex history. To condense Berlin’s history into sizable parts that you can understand is commendable. I even met locals who had said they had wanted to take this tour for the past 10 years to better understand their past. 

Not only do you get to grips with the city’s history, but you get to learn about it from a truly interesting perspective and to understand a complex time in modern history in that way is priceless. 

Many thanks to the Berlin Underworlds Association for allowing me the opportunity to attend one of their tours.

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

20 May 2014 at 4:15 pm

I just did the underground tour last week, it was pretty cool! I also recommend that you check out the abandoned brewery near Schöneweide station (which you have to sneak in), and also the Stasi museum.

Brad Bernard says

17 May 2014 at 5:46 pm

How cool is that? I’m definitely linking here for the Berlin section of my Best Travel Experiences. The tunnels are so fascinating and capture a time when life was much different.

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Exploring WWII Bunkers in Berlin – A Guide for Beginners

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Cold War Tour Berlin

World War II left an indelible mark on Berlin, with remnants of history scattered throughout the city. One of the most fascinating aspects of this period is the network of bunkers built during the war. In this guide, we will explore the significance of these bunkers, where to find them in Berlin, and how to make the most of your visit.

1. Understanding the Importance of WWII Bunkers

During World War II, Berlin was heavily bombed by the Allies, and the bunkers served as shelters for the civilian population as well as key personnel. Exploring these bunkers provides a unique glimpse into the realities of life during wartime.

2. Visiting the Berliner Unterwelten Museum

For a comprehensive understanding of the WWII bunkers, a visit to the Berliner Unterwelten Museum is highly recommended. This museum offers guided tours led by experts who share their knowledge about the history and architecture of the bunkers.

The museum provides a variety of tours focused on different aspects of the war, such as the air-raid shelter tour, flak tower tour, and bunker tour. Each tour offers fascinating insights and allows visitors to explore different types of bunkers.

3. Exploring Famous Bunkers in Berlin

In addition to the museum, several famous bunkers are open to the public in Berlin. Here are a few notable ones:

3.1. The Führerbunker

The Führerbunker, located in the heart of Berlin, was the shelter where Adolf Hitler spent his final days. Although the original bunker was destroyed, it has been marked with information boards outlining its historical significance.

3.2. The Humboldthain Flak Tower

The Humboldthain Flak Tower is one of the few remaining structures that testify to the immense destruction in Berlin. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Exploring the underground parts of the tower also provides a chilling experience.

3.3. The Boros Bunker

The Boros Bunker, an imposing structure in Berlin-Mitte, has been repurposed as an art gallery. The bunker’s thick concrete walls serve as the backdrop for contemporary art exhibitions, contrasting the dark history with vibrant modern creativity.

4. Tips for Exploring WWII Bunkers

When visiting WWII bunkers in Berlin, keep the following tips in mind:

• Come prepared with comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as many bunkers can be cold and damp.
• Book your tickets in advance, especially for museum tours, to ensure availability.
• Respect the historical significance of the sites and follow any guidelines set by the authorities.
• Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and architecture of the bunkers.

Exploring WWII bunkers in Berlin is a fascinating experience that provides a deeper understanding of the city’s history during World War II. Whether you choose to visit the Berliner Unterwelten Museum or explore famous bunkers independently, you are sure to be captivated by the stories they hold. Plan your visit, immerse yourself in the history, and prepare to be amazed.

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Tour 3 – Bunkers, Subways and the Cold War

• Berliner Unterwelten
• Guided Tours
• Public Tours
• Bunkers, Subways and the Cold War

The East-West Conflict in the underground

This tour follows the traces of the Cold War in the underground. In West Berlin, civil defence shelters were reactivated or newly built in preparation for a possible nuclear war. Particularly after the building of the Berlin Wall, the West German government and the West Berlin senate invested millions in these projects. Some of these were built as “multi-purpose structures” and are currently used as underground stations, parking garages and storage facilities. By explaining the practical preparations made to help people survive, this tour attempts to make the realities and horrors of such conflict easy to comprehend. First we visit the civil defence shelter, “Blochplatz”, an air-raid shelter from WWII that was renovated in the early 1980s. In an emergency, 1,318 people were to shelter here for up to 48 hours. After a short ride via the U-Bahn to Pankstrasse station, we offer a glimpse into the workings of a “modern” bunker, which was intended to protect the citizens of West Berlin in case of a full-blown nuclear war. This “multi-purpose” facility, built in 1977 along with the northbound extension of the U8 underground line, serves not only as an U-Bahn stop for commuters but also, in an emergency, it could have sheltered 3,339 people for up to two weeks. Here, we try to give you an idea of what it could have been like, had World War Three broken out.

Due to the events in Ukraine since February 24 th , 2022, this tour has unfortunately become frighteningly topical.

Please note that the hygiene and distancing rules must be followed.

Recommended reading

Tour 3 – Subways and Bunkers in the Cold War Brochure | 2 nd edition | 2013 | 40 pages | € 3,- This publication is available in our Info- and bookshop .

Special Advice, Equipment

Sturdy footwear is obligatory (no sandals or flip flops!).

Please read our important notes about our tours.

Minimum Age, Accessibility

Our tours and exhibitions are not appropriate for children under 7 years of age. We regret that we must therefore refuse entry to children in this age group. The delivery and content of our tours is aimed at adults, and can only be recommended for children aged 14 years or older.

Due to limitations imposed by the structure of the buildings, our tours are not handicapped accessible.

Please read our important notes about our tours .

Dates, Duration, Admission

Dates and tickets can be found in our Online-Shop . Duration: 90 min. Admission: €16 (reduced €13) Our General Terms and Conditions are applicable.

Reservations and Tickets

Tickets for this tour are only available via our Online-Shop . No ticket sales at the meeting point!

Please note that tickets purchased in advance are excluded from exchange, refund and return.

Tickets purchased in advance must be presented at the entrance of the tour.

Venue (with ticket), public transport

Meeting point with ticket: Badstraße / corner Böttgerstraße, 13357 Berlin in front of the white entrance building GoogleMaps Public transport: S+U / DB Gesundbrunnen, Bus 247

Information for groups

The public tours are designed for and aimed at individual guests.

Groups can book this tour on request . Please visit the section: GUIDED TOURS > TOURS FOR GROUPS for more details.

Tickets for this tour are only available via our Online-Shop. No ticket sales at the meeting point. Online-Shop

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Guided tour:

Historic artbunker, unscathed by wwii.

After Dresden, Nuremberg was the second most destroyed city in Germany during World War II. Nevertheless, irreplaceable Nuremberg art treasures survived in a unique art bunker.

The vaults, which were hewn deep into the castle hill as a beer store, were converted and equipped with complex technology in order to offer optimal conditions for protecting artwork. Unnoticed by the population, Nuremberg paintings, goldsmith works, church windows and other things, including art robbed by the Nazis were safely stored before the bombing raids came up. Other art that could not be transported, such as the Schöner Brunnen, was walled in to protect it in this way.

The guided tour through the historic art bunker begins with an insight into how the population was prepared for the war at an early stage. Despite all these measures and contrary to all the announcements made by Nazi propaganda, Nuremberg was almost completely destroyed. The extent of the damage can be impressively experienced during the tour thanks to large-format pictures of the former desert of rubble.

Check English tours for foreign languages!

• Daily guided tours in English at 1:15 p.m. and 5:15 p.m.
• Duration: approximately 60 minutes
• Maximum group size: 20 persons
• Group bookings by arrangement (German, English, max. 20 persons)
• Audioguides: English, French, Spanish, Italian
• Meeting point: Historic Art Bunker, Obere Schmiedgasse 52

*Our GTC and visitor regulations apply

Buy tickets here

Ticket machine at the entrance to the historic art bunker.

Obere Schmiedgasse 52 90403 Nuremberg Mon-Sun 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Museum shop at Albrecht Dürer House

Albrecht-Dürer-Straße 30 90403 Nuremberg Tue-Sun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tourist info office on the main square

Am Hauptmarkt 18 90403 Nuremberg Mon-Sun 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Förderverein Nürnberger Felsengänge e.V.

Albrecht-dürer-strasse 21 d-90403 nuremberg.

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​There is no better way to learn about the Jersey Occupation during the second world war than with Phil and Kimberley. They set up Jersey War Tours in 2015, and it is the only Non-Profit Organisation offering military tours in Jersey. They receive no government or heritage funding, and profits get invested in WW2 research, preservation and education. Phil and Kimberley volunteer their time and are passionate about sharing their work and providing you with an experience you will never forget.

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