Hope after storm: 160,000 euros for the Sachsenhausen memorial!

Hope after storm: 160,000 euros for the Sachsenhausen memorial!

On June 26, 2025, a violent storm caused significant damage to the Sachsenhausen Memorial. In particular, the tar paper roof of the former prison laundry, a listed building, was completely torn off. Heavy rain meant that water was able to penetrate the rooms unhindered, which resulted in extensive moisture penetration of the hall ceiling. This ceiling, which was designed in 1961 from triangular elements, is now suffering from the consequences of the storm. In this hall in particular, an event hall is regularly used and workshop exhibitions take place.

The amount of damage was estimated at at least 100,000 euros, but the exact amount has not yet been quantified, the memorial reported in a statement. Minor damage also occurred to a watchtower, and fallen trees and numerous broken branches were also found. A large outdoor panel set up as part of exhibitions marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation was blown over. Fortunately, the original exhibits from the current workshop exhibition in the foyer remained undamaged and could be safely stored in the depot. Thanks to the quick response of the Oranienburg fire department, the danger areas were secured on the evening of the storm.

Financial support for the memorial

In order to repair the damage, the state of Brandenburg is providing the Sachsenhausen Memorial with around 160,000 euros. Culture Minister Manja Schüle (SPD) will hand over the funding decision next Wednesday in Oranienburg. These funds are part of a larger initiative that will see approximately €1.87 million allocated this year to safeguard endangered monuments. In total, around 40 projects can be supported with these funds, with the Sachsenhausen Memorial playing a prominent role.

The construction of a new visitor center is also planned by 2030, the costs of which will be shared between the state and the federal government. At the beginning of August, selected designs for the visitor center were presented - a step that not only contributes to the promotion of cultural heritage, but also represents a sign of responsibility towards the historical context.

Preservation of monuments in the context of controversial history

The handling of monuments such as those found in the Sachsenhausen Memorial is always a controversial topic. In the context of discussions about monuments, both the preservation of historical structures and their critical discussion are in the public focus. The debate about the meaning of monuments and their historical roots is essential for the formation of a society's identity, as the handling of controversial monuments shows. Monument scholars advocate not only viewing these places as places of remembrance, but also illuminating the critical points in their history and conducting an open dialogue about them.

Especially in places like Sachsenhausen, which are inextricably linked to German-German history, the relevance and meaning of the monuments is reflected in current social discussions. Dealing with one's own heritage, be it in the form of events, exhibitions or in reflection on the structural substance, remains a dynamic process. So it remains exciting to see how the new visitor center will promote engagement with this historic site in the future.