Treasures of the »MS Völkerfreundschaft« in the DDR Museum Depot
Berlin, 28 April 2026 – In 1959, the GDR purchased the passenger ship »Stockholm« for around 20 million Swedish kronor. From 1960 onwards, it sailed under the name »MS Völkerfreundschaft«. The Free German Trade Union Federation operated the ship for over 25 years. Cruises on board were regarded as a special honour for workers and party veterans.
In 1985, the GDR sold the »MS Völkerfreundschaft« and replaced it with the larger and more modern »Arkona«. In the decades that followed, the ship remained in service under various names and owners, becoming one of the longest-serving transatlantic vessels in the world. More than three decades after the end of the GDR, the ship is now finally being scrapped.
However, numerous objects from the era of the »MS Völkerfreundschaft« have been preserved in the DDR Museum’s depot. These include, amongst other things, a decorative wooden plate, a drinks menu featuring unusual offerings such as turtle soup for 1.80 marks, and a large wooden clip with a decorative inscription. These and other artefacts provide insights into the travel culture of the GDR.
The objects are kept in the DDR Museum’s depot in Berlin-Marzahn. The depot’s collection manager, historian Eric Strohmeier-Wimmer, is available for interviews.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm
Thursday 12 pm to 5 pm
Every first Sunday of the month 11 am to 4 pm
Location
DDR Museum Depot
Pyramidenring 10
12681 Berlin-Marzahn
Contact
Simone Uthleb, Spokesperson, on +49 30 847 123 7-47 or presse@ddr-museum.de
