Insight into history – the Anne Frank Zentrum in Haus Schwarzenberg
In a neighbouring courtyard of the Hackesche Höfe, the Anne Frank Zentrum commemorates Anne Frank and the victims of the Holocaust. The centre also aims to promote a commitment to democracy and diversity and as well a stand against anti-Semitism.
Everyone knows the building. At least by sight. The old, weathered façade at Rosenthaler Straße 39 stands out among all the hip boutiques and bustling cafés in Mitte. Large letters point to a laundry that has long since ceased to exist. Haus Schwarzenberg is in direct neighborhood of Hackesche Höfe. It has an eventful history, having been a residential building, a factory building and the headquarters of the GDR film production company DEFA. During the war, the owner of a brush factory hid employees here to save them from deportation to the extermination camps.
Photo above: the entrance to the Anne Frank Zentrum, © Ruthe Zuntz
ANNE FRANK
Today, an institution in the rear building commemorates another eventful fate during the Third Reich: the Anne Frank Zentrum. It is named after the Jewish girl from Frankfurt who hid with her family from the Nazis, but was betrayed, discovered and murdered. The diary published after her death became world-famous. Haus Schwarzenberg, with its special history, provides a suitable setting for the centre.
Photo right: portrait photo of Anne Frank in 1942
More than just a museum
The Anne Frank Zentrum is more than just a museum. It is a place of remembrance of Anne Frank and the millions of Jews who lost their lives in the Holocaust, but also a lively place to discuss topics such as tolerance, human rights and democracy.
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the center also offers educational programs and workshops. These programs are designed to encourage young people to reflect on the significance of history and draw parallels with current social challenges. They learn about the importance of tolerance and how to actively stand up for democracy and human rights.
Photo left: exhibition »All about Anne«, © Anne Frank Zentrum, Gregor Zielke
All about Anne
The exhibition "All about Anne" is designed to be interactive and is aimed particularly at young visitors. Personal objects, photos and documents make the life of Anne Frank and her family tangible. Visitors can experience the events of the Second World War and the horrors of the Holocaust through Anne's eyes. The exhibition is a place of learning about the history of National Socialism, but also establishes links to the present by raising questions about identity, discrimination and civil courage.
The Anne Frank Zentrum shows that the history of Anne Frank is still relevant today. It reminds us of the important role each and every one of us plays in shaping society.
Photo right: true copy of the original diary of Anne Frank, © Anne Frank Zentrum, Gregor Zielke
The exhibition is bilingual in German and English. The texts are in plain language. The most important texts in the exhibition are translated into German sign language.
Opening hours:
The Anne Frank Zentrum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. Booked groups can enter from 9 am.
Admission:
Admission is free for children under the age of 10. Children aged 11-17, severely disabled people and senior citizens pay 4 euros, adults 8 euros.
Would you like to find out more about the neighbor of Hackesche Höfe? Then also read our story about Haus Schwarzenberg.