65 years since Wall construction – The DDR Museum commemorates 13 August 1961

Berlin, 30 July 2026 – On 13 August 2026, the 65th anniversary of the beginning of the construction of the Berlin Wall will be commemorated. To mark the occasion, the DDR Museum invites visitors to explore the causes, consequences and personal stories connected with the division of Germany. The permanent exhibition provides historical context for the construction of the Wall and illustrates the impact of the inner-German border through numerous original objects and interactive displays.

The exhibition begins with the end of the Second World War and the occupation of Germany by the four Allied powers. Visitors gain an insight into the political developments that ultimately led to the division of Germany and the establishment of two separate German states.

The exhibition then focuses on how the division of Germany shaped everyday life in the GDR. Political measures such as »Operation Vermin« (»Aktion Ungeziefer«) are explained alongside the gradual sealing of the inner-German border. Interactive stations and original artefacts bring this history to life through a recreated passport control, displays on border crossing points and an example of a suitcase prepared for an escape attempt.

A particular focus is placed on the Berlin Wall. A large-scale Wall diorama vividly demonstrates that the border consisted of far more than a concrete wall: it was a complex and heavily fortified border system. At least 140 people lost their lives at the Berlin Wall. This section of the exhibition also features an original six-metre-long segment of the Berlin Wall.

The DDR Museum is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm.

New »Places of East Germany« Special Episode Marks the Anniversary of the Berlin Wall

Those who would prefer to reflect on the anniversary from home will find a suitable programme on the DDR Museum’s YouTube channel.

On 13 August 2026, a special episode of the series »Places of the East« featuring Dr Ilko-Sascha Kowalczuk will be released. The film series explores places, events and themes from the history of East Germany – and Germany more broadly – whose legacy continues to shape the present.

The new episode examines the events leading up to the construction of the Berlin Wall, the course of 13 August 1961 and the long-term consequences of the GDR border regime. Rather than focusing solely on central Berlin, it highlights the sealing off of West Berlin at the city's outskirts, using the now-vanished village of Osdorf in the municipality of Großbeeren as a case study.

The episode will be released on 13 August 2026 at 1 am in the »Places of the East« playlist on the DDR Museum’s YouTube channel.

Interview Contact

Dr Liza Soutschek is available for interviews and background discussions. To arrange an interview, please contact our Press Officer, Simone Uthleb, on +49 30 847 123 7-47 or by email at presse@ddr-museum.de.