Self-guided podcast tour of Lübeck's Iron Curtain

Dive into the shadows of the Cold War in a city that was suddenly surrounded on three sides by the Iron Curtain. Once the undisputed queen of the Hanseatic League, Lübeck woke up in 1945 to find itself in a geopolitical cul-de-sac, cut off from its natural eastern hinterland. On this captivating tour, you discover the psychological burden of living on the edge of the Western world. From the shattered bells of St. Mary's to the secret lifelines of the 'Westpakete, experience how a traumatized border city became the cradle of Willy Brandt's groundbreaking peace policy. - 5.3 km self-guided tour with 8 stations over 151 min. - Ideal for everyone interested in history, memory and identity, migration, and globalization Excitingly told in a podcast style by experts and locals - Suitable audio content, AI guide, and navigation via the app

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   The main station served as a tense transit hub during the Cold War and was the strictly monitored physical connection to the East.

2. 2

   Salzspeicher

   10 min

   Historic salt storage facilities that represent Lübeck's Hanseatic past and stood in stark contrast to its economic isolation during the Cold War.

3. 3

   St. Marien in Lubeck

   10 min

   The broken bells lying on the ground are a poignant reminder of the bombing raids of the Second World War and symbolize the cause of the division of Germany.

4. 4

   Willy-Brandt-Haus

   10 min

   A museum dedicated to Willy Brandt, whose 'Ostpolitik' was strongly influenced by his origin in this border region.

5. 5

   Heiligen-Geist-Hospital

   10 min

   A historical symbol of charity that housed refugees after the Second World War and served as a center for cross-border compassion.

6. 6

   Burgtor-Befestigungsanlage Lubeck

   10 min

   The northern city gate, which symbolizes Lübeck's forced orientation towards Scandinavia when the east was blocked by the Iron Curtain.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   10 min

   A historic drawbridge that offers a poignant axis view to the east over the water and underscores the psychological burden of the nearby border.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   10 min

   The smallest and easternmost old town church, which stands for the intimate, everyday emotional bonds and the resilience of the community.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.